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
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"You don't carry a tube for emergencies with tubeless, that's the whole point. TubeLESS, not tubeWITH" - the Cyber Monday deal that set our Facebook comments alight
A Cyber Monday deals article on TPU inner tubes ignited a massive debate in our comments section – and one quote, in particular, set the page alight. Today, I'm wading back into the fray and asking you to answer a couple of polls on this clearly divisive topic
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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LIVE: Cyber Monday Cycling Deals 2025 are over, but fear many deals are still live, HURRY!
That's it, it's all over for another year, but panic not, a number of the best Cyber Monday cycling deals are still live
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Cyber Monday Bike Deals 2025 might be over, but these 76 hand-picked deals by our experts are still live! HURRY!
The Cycling Weekly deal hunting experts are done for another year; however, panic not, these 76 hand-picked deals are still live!
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Sealant Shunning - the rise of the TPU inner tube, 4 Cyber Monday discounts on the performance trend of 2025
Tyre compatibility issues, the mess, and still needing to carry a tube for emergencies have driven people back to tubes in 2025. Here is my pick of the four best deals this Cyber Monday
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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LIVE: Cyber Monday cycling deals 2025 – as Black Friday becomes Cyber Monday, deals are still dropping thick and fast, but time is running out; act fast to avoid disappointment
As Black Friday gives way to Cyber Monday, deals are still dropping thick and FAST, so make sure you jump on them, as there is no guarantee these deals will last
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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I just won Black Friday by finding the Magicshine Allty 1500S bike light at 50% off - hurry, as it might disappear before Cyber Monday
I added the Magicshine Allty 1500S to our best bike lights guide just this week, as it was one of the best on test this Fall/Autumn. Now it is 50% in the Amazon Black Friday sale
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Decathlon are living in the future with this self-powered exercise bike, which is now £100 off in Black Friday
The self-powered Domyos EB900 exercise bike from Decathlon certainly caught my eye for its futuristic tech, and now it's £100 off in the Black Friday sales
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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100% Brisker winter cycling gloves are my go-to for winter riding and are now a staggeringly low £21 in the Tredz Black Friday sale - Act fast!
Yes, the 100% Briskers sacrifice a little warmth; however, the outstanding dexterity gives you superior control and movement on the bike. High performance and feel, for just £21 in the Tredz Black Friday sale.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Hutchinson Caracal Race Gravel Tyre Review: significant improvements in speed
Hutchinson has really upped their game with the Caracal Race, especially in terms of rolling resistance, making it a compelling option for all-around use and racers alike. But that's only half of the story...
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Best kids’ bikes 2025: 12 to 24-inch wheels all reviewed and rated by our mini testers
Find the perfect bike for your budding young bike rider, with reviews that cover all ages and wheel sizes, from 12 to 24 inches and 2 to 11 years old
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best time trial helmets 2025: TT and Triathlon helmets tested for much more than just speed
Finding extra speed isn't always about aerodynamics; We put six of the world's fastest helmets to the test, focusing on their comfort, fit and usability.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best road bikes 2025: reviewed and rated by road cycling experts and racers
Our expert testers have chosen 12 of the best road bikes, from budget models to grand tour-proven race machines
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Woom Ready Kids’ Bike Helmet Review: a clever design that puts many adult helmets to shame
Comfortable, well designed and functional with several features I’d like to see more regularly on adult helmets
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Over £170,000 in bike parts up for auction with current bid just £2600 after bike company restructuring
German mountain bike brand YT Industries, after closing the UK-based YT Mill, is now selling off all its assets, including the kitchen sink
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Amazon Prime Day Cycling Deals 2025: Prime Big Deal Days are over - don't panic, these 46 deals are still live
Prime Big Deal Days may be over for another year, but there are still a ton of deals to be had. Check out these 46 deals still live today
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Stop Scrolling: 7 deals from real bike shops that Jeff can't touch with his 'Big Deals'
Feeling like you are getting the best cycling deals is important, but shopping around is hard work. While Amazon makes shopping simple, there are better deals to be had elsewhere from real bike shops
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Best road bike pedals 2025: our complete guide to the best clipless pedal systems
The best clipless pedals are essential for road and gravel riding; here we look at some of the pedal systems available for cyclists
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best winter tyres for road cycling 2025
The best winter tires for our road bikes are an essential purchase. Here are our picks that find a robust compromise between rolling resistance, weight, and puncture protection
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best puncture-proof tyres for cycling 2025: add peace of mind to your riding with some puncture protection
Tyre reliability can have a massive impact on your enjoyment of cycling, so fit one of the best puncture-proof tyres and worry no more
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best mudguards/fenders for gravel bikes 2025: Our recommendations for protection against muck and spray for you and your bike
Want to extend the life of your components and ride in greater comfort? We’ve rounded up the best fenders / mudguards to protect both you and your gravel bike
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best indoor smart bikes 2025: for the best training experience year round
The best smart bikes can keep your training on track, regardless of the weather, all tested and rated
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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A ticket to freedom: avert the tube strikes with these top-rated commuter and folding bike deals
For commuters there is never a more stressful time than a tube strike; so, grab a bike and take a chance to enjoy the last of the summer
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Best mudguards/fenders for road bikes 2025
It's time to stop shunning mudguards and fenders. These seven top-rated strips of plastic and metal protect far more than just your chamois
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best energy gels for cycling 2025: all taste tested and rated
Energy gels shouldn't just be for a quick boost, they should be palatable and kind on your stomach - tested and rated, the best energy gels for flavour, performance and usability
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
