Matt Ischt-Barnard
Like many others, Matt began his journey in the bicycle industry, wielding Allen keys and the occasional hammer at his local bike shop. Growing up mountain biking in the flint-strewn hills of the North Downs, he was persuaded during his time with Evans Cycles' in-house brands Pinnacle and Hoy Bikes to embrace gravel cycling and bikepacking. Recognising the evolving industry, Matt eagerly seized the chance to become an E-bike designer and garnered several awards with Cairn Cycles and their range of gravel E-bikes.
These days, Matt is likely to have a toddler sitting shotgun and a balance bike secured to his back somewhere on the South Downs. When he manages to find time to ride for himself, he opts to take his Sonder Camino to nearly any quiet spot, off the beaten track, or somewhere with a historical point of interest.
Latest articles by Matt Ischt-Barnard
-
Spot the difference: I refused to pay $60 for a bike bell, so I brought this $13 one, and you can barely tell
We all like nice things, and the Spurcycle bell definitely fits that description, but $60 is a lot for a bike bell. So, I found this RockBros vintage style one on Amazon, and it is hard to spot the difference
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
If you buy nothing else this Amazon Prime Day, consider buying this very affordable $15 tool, which could, in the long run, save you hundreds of dollars
Keeping an eye on how worn your chain is and replacing it regularly could save you hundreds of dollars in expensive cassettes
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
While my pick for the best angle grinder-resistant lock didn't win our test, it is now cheaper than the best on test, OnGuard RockSolid, in the Amazon Prime Day Sale
While I only awarded the ABUS Granit Super Extreme 2500 4 stars, it is the one I would buy with my own money, and here is why you should take advantage of this 19% discount
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
"It has genuinely changed how much I use an action camera" - Cycling Weekly Tech Writer Joe Baker on why you must consider buying an Insta360 X4 this Amazon Prime Day
Joe named the Insta360 X4 as one of his Products of the Year 2024. He was impressed with several features, but more so by just how much he found himself using it
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Bike Check: Jack Thompson's Project 1903 custom 2-speed Specialized Roubaix
Fresh from tackling Europe’s 10 highest paved roads, Jack is keeping it authentic with his latest project, taking on the whole 1903 Tour De France route, on a custom-built two-speed Specialized Roubaix SL8
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Best handlebar tape 2025: tested and rated with guidance on how to get the perfect wrap
Reviewed and rated for comfort, grip, durability, and, of course, style
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-
Last-minute cycling gifts for Father's Day, recommendations from a cycling dad
With Father's Day just two days away, here are my last-minute gift ideas for the cycling dads in your life
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
I have tested over a dozen locks in the last year, and I ended up actually buying this one, which is now over 30% off at Amazon US
The OnGuard Pitbull Mini is a brilliant little lock that balances a high-security level with a low weight, and with this Amazon US discount, it's yours for under $40
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Best bike locks 2025: every style of lock extensively tested and rated
Our cycling experts put all the best bike locks through rigorous testing, ensuring you can leave your bike anywhere, secure in the knowledge that it's safe.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-
Best bike storage solutions 2025: hooks, racks and sheds for storage and security
Looking for a bike storage solution that allows you to keep your pride and joy neat and tidy at home? We round out some of the best and explain the options
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-
The best flat pedals for cycling 2025: great options for gravel and urban use
A pair of best flat pedals can be a very handy option whether you are commuting in work shoes or just looking for extra confidence on your bike
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-
Save £42 on the same tyres that Mathieu Van de Poel won Paris-Roubaix on, this Easter weekend
Deals Its rare that Pirelli P-Zero Race TLR RS can be found on sale, and certainly not with a whopping 25% discount, grab a pair this weekend before they go...
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
Deals -
I can't stand seatpacks - it's time to make pannier racks cool again
Who'd want a wagging tail when you can have sturdy pannier bags?
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Be seen all year round with 35% off Magicshine bike lights in the Amazon Big Spring Sale
This is your last chance to seize a deal on some of the best bike lights with daylight running features. Act fast, as the sale ends at midnight tonight
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
I have combed the Amazon Big Spring Sale so you can save big with these 3 sports nutrition deals
Stock up and prepare for the season ahead with the best deals I have found on energy bars, hydration, and gels
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
The future of bicycle pumps is electric, and I am jumping on the bandwagon with this Cycplus AS2 electric pump deal in the Amazon Big Spring Sale
Cycplus has established a reputation for producing high-quality mini electric tyre inflators, and the compact AS2 is swiftly emerging as the market leader
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Hiplok DX1000 bike lock review: one of the most secure bike locks I have ever tested
While the DX1000 impressed in our angle grinder test, this high level of security comes at quite a price
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500 bike lock review: the most easily transportable angle grinder-resistant lock on the market
Abus is highly regarded for creating some of the world's best bike locks, and the Granit Super Extreme showcases its remarkable attention to detail
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Litelok X3 bike lock review: an exceptionally well-rounded angle grinder-resistant lock that perfectly balances weight, reach and security
Boasting additional reach and features over its main rival, the OnGuard RockSolid, the X3 presents superb value
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
OnGuard RockSolid 8950 review: finally, the bike lock to stop opportunistic thefts?
This is the lock that defeated our brutal angle grinder test with barely a scratch. Rated Sold Secure Diamond, I rate and recommend it too
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Squire Straplok 35/850 wearable bike lock review: lightweight, comfortable, and so simple to use
This has my vote for best wearable bike lock because it's a breeze to use, incredibly comfy to wear and let down only by its slightly inferior Sold Secure Silver rating
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Litelok Core Plus 75cm wearable lock review: A Sold Secure diamond-rated bike lock for those travelling light
The Litlok Core Plus performs admirably at the bike rack; however, the wearability of this very secure lock is questionable
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
My son just got his first pedal bike - and I hope it doesn’t spell the end of our Shotgun adventures
Regardless if we’re on one bike or two, my one hope is that bikes help us adventure long into the future
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-
Best rim brake pads for road bikes 2025: better braking performance no matter the weather for carbon and alloy rims
Looking for better braking performance no matter whether it’s wet or dry? We’ve rounded up the best rim brake pads for road bikes
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated