Mechanical doping reaches new levels (video)

Doping and mechanical doping are obviously serious issues that continue to blight cycling. But sometimes a bit of slapstick and satire can lighten almost any subject.

In this video from Dans La Musette on Twitter, a rider on a fixed-gear bike gives some roadies a bit of a surprise. After overtaking the two riders and riding in front, he turns on his not very subtle booster and leaves them well behind.

They probably all know each other, it's clearly a set-up and the music will remind you of a terrible film... but it's still funny.

A look ahead to the Cyclocross World Championships

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVwVdIDibW4

This season's Cyclocross World Championships are due to take place in Luxembourg over the weekend of January 28 and 29, 2017.

Present men's champion Wout van Aert (Belgium) is already having a strong season so he could be one to watch for the win.

British hopes in the women's race will be concentrated on Helen Wyman and Nikki Brammeier, but both were involved in a heavy crash at the recent European Championships so may not be back on top form by the time the Worlds come around.

At the same Euros, Britain's Tom Pidcock won the U19 race and on present performances could take the start in Luxembourg as favourite for the world title.

Infrastructure proves its worth

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hED1urC62OA

False claims abound about a lack of cyclists using London's slowing improving infrastructure, but this video demonstrates its worth in terms of keeping people safe.

>>> Study advises cyclists in city centres to ride at 9.3mph

The left-turning lorry is no problem when the riders are separated by a kerb and given their own priority signal at the lights.

Experienced cyclists know which vehicles not to ride near, but those kind of riders will take to two wheels regardless.

>>> Consultations on two London Cycle Superhighways first announced in 2008 to be held next year

The people who benefit from safe segregated cycle routes like this the most are groups who might otherwise avoid using their bikes, and that should be celebrated.

Tips for your best off-season yet

Winter doesn't have to be a grind. In this training video, we talk you through six key steps to have a productive off-season and hit the new year ready for your best year yet of racing, sportives or just turning the pedals with friends.

One for the to do list

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYQFbZhg3u4&feature=youtu.be

There are plenty of international sportives and events out there to do, but this one looks a bit different.

Running back in October in California, USA, Grinduro is a multi-day event of road and gravel riding. Plus a good deal of beer drinking and late night dancing.

Set to return with two events, the second rumoured to be outside of the US, this definitely looks like one to consider doing in the near future.

Not all suitable for road bikes

https://www.facebook.com/alic.bikes/videos/1206186652789715/

Here are some car park skills to try, for fun and to improve your bike handling. Although they might not all be suitable for narrow road rims, which could easily fold under such strain.