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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

Best cycling shoes 2025: Our top-rated and reviewed shoes for road cycling
The best cycling shoes will make your rides more comfortable, more efficient and more enjoyable
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-

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
-

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
-

Are you sitting comfortably? Best bike saddles 2025 ridden and reviewed
Choosing a saddle is no easy task. We have rated and reviewed the 12 best to help you find the right one.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-

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
-

Best cycling glasses 2025: reviewed and rated across all price points for road and gravel
We hand-pick our favourite cycling sunglasses and help you choose the right style and price for you
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

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
-

Best bike cleaning kits 2025: for a faster and shinier bike
The best bike cleaning kits will keep your steed clean, well oiled and in perfect working order
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-

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
-

Best lightweight bike locks 2025: highly transportable and wearable locks
Don't let your bike lock weigh you down. We have tested and rated all the lightest bike locks
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
-

Could this be the world's cheapest cargo bike? For under $500, I think this Target compact cargo bike could help you haul more for less
In a world where car replacement cargo bikes cost as much as a car, it is refreshing to see something that looks genuinely affordable
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
-

The tyre that changed my opinion on semi-slick gravel tyres, but not in the way you might think - The Pirelli P-Zero Race TLR 40, finally reviewed
I thought the Pirelli P-Zero 40mm might be a game-changer for gravel bikes; however, it quickly highlighted the limitations of gravel bike geometry when it comes to fast road riding.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
