In the Drops: The Road Book, fresh BBB lights, Wizard Works + Le Col collaboration, and Velefique
This week’s In the Drops felt like AI’s mistaken identity as a basketball star, a reminder that technology can blur the lines between entertainment and information.
Despite a chaotic online landscape, cyclist.co.uk has kept delivering, offering a week’s worth of standout content. We kicked off with stage-by-stage Giro d’Italia previews for both the men’s race and Giro d’Italia Women, along with detailed route analyses and recommendations on who should be at the start in Bulgaria.
We also refreshed a slew of buying guides, added a new piece tallying our favorite 1x road bikes, and invited Emma Cole to summarize insights from world-class cycling coaches for the perfect winter training plan. Today, Scribe Cycling unveiled its eye-catching new wheels with distinctive wavy spokes.
Let’s dive in.
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The Road Book returns. Ned Boulting’s cycling almanack is back on the calendar, and the 2025 edition is now available. It blends hard data with eloquent prose from top industry writers and a slate of pros. This year’s contributors include Isaac del Toro and Cyclist’s own Robyn Davidson, who each tallied a remarkable number of Grand Tours this season.
Buy The Road Book 2025 for £55.
BBB NanoStrike 1000i Plus and SignalBrake lights
As daylight grows scarce, reliable bike lights are essential. BBB’s latest set delivers.
Front: NanoStrike 1000i Plus — an upside-down mounted, dual-LED front light delivering 1,000 lumens across five modes for maximum visibility. It includes a wireless remote for easy changes on the move and a durable aluminum housing. USB-C charging, and a claimed weight of 125 g (unverified here).
Rear: SignalBrake — 45 COB LEDs for enhanced visibility, plus a brake indicator to signal deceleration to riders behind. A long strap mount fits aero seatposts, and a discreet USB-C port protects against rain and dirt.
Available from Windwave: NanoStrike 1000i Plus and SignalBrake links provided.
Le Col x Wizard Works Teeny Houdini saddle bag
A collaboration between Le Col and Wizard Works brings a small run of bags designed for cyclists. The Teeny Houdini saddle bag holds 0.5 liters, uses a magnetic buckle, and can securely carry a puncture kit. Each bag is handmade in Wizard Works’ London studio with durable fabrics and reflective detailing.
Buy Le Col x Wizard Works bags from Le Col for £46.
Ad feature: absoluteBLACK Flat Mount Disc Brake Adaptor
A reminder that small parts shape the overall ride. AbsoluteBLACK introduces Flat Mount Brake Caliper Adaptors that are lightweight and precisely styled. Each adaptor ships with two titanium bolts to keep the system strong and light. Available in black or grey, these adaptors offer a clean look compatible with common flat mount standards, including Specialized SL8. Even the tiniest details deserve attention.
Ad feature ends
What we’re into this week: Velefique and beyond
A winter sun escape to southern Spain, near Almería, provided a refreshing break from routine. The scenery—blue skies, sun-warmed valleys, and rugged mountains—was stunning and almost traffic-free. Gratitude to Stu from Velo Velefique for organizing the trip and to Dirk for joining along. Fans should watch for an upcoming Big Ride in early 2026.
Will Strickson, the site’s editor, writes with a mix of humor and insight about bikes, gear, racing, and travel. He balances a relentlessly curious approach with a healthy dose of sarcasm, often navigating north London on two wheels while sharing thoughts on football, rugby, and the NFL. You can follow his updates on Twitter and Instagram.
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