From the Magazine

The following article is the first in a four-part series on industry succession planning. It appeared in the January issue of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News.
OLNEY, IL (BRAIN) —Magura picked up so much new disc brake spec for 2013 it topped up the diesel in two Sprinter vans sending them out to support dealer clinics around the country.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (BRAIN) — While the industry’s three prominent advocacy groups decided to continue to work independently last August, the merger talks forced each to evaluate funding and internal resources. The failed unification brought to light a need to refocus priorities, said Tim Blumenthal, president of Bikes Belong.

POSTFACH, Germany (BRAIN) — Disc brakes on road bikes? Not so fast, says Germany’s brake specialist, Magura.
Magura has launched a study logging how a number of test riders use disc brakes over miles of European roads before deciding whether the technology is an option for the company.
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (BRAIN) — The Grinch stole Argentina’s bike market this year, but the industry hopes the spirit of Christmas softens the government’s stance and import laws are softened in time for the holidays, the traditional start of the Argentine bike season.
HOFHEIM, Germany (BRAIN) — Benchmark Drives develops e-bike drivetrains and lightweight, low-maintenance belt-drive systems that hold a lot of appeal. But the high belt tension of current designs stresses bearings and makes it difficult to read drivetrain tension, an integral part of efficient e-bike drivetrains.

It was after completing a 2,300-mile bicycle tour from Oregon to Texas in 1980 that Wayne Borroughs began dreaming of opening up a bike shop to help perpetuate his love of bicycle travel. Borroughs worked at a shop in Fort Collins, Colorado, for seven years before opening up his own store, which he ran for another seven. But neither experience truly scratched his itch for touring bikes.

CARSLBAD, CA—Outside the entrance of Spy Optic, the wetsuits and towels slung over the railing along the handicap-accessible ramp are the first sign that this is a company where the employees live what they’re selling. The commuter bikes racked up inside the lobby are the second.

ST. PAUL, MN (BRAIN) — After 15 years in its current location, Park Tool is moving to larger digs. The Minnesota bike tool maker recently broke ground on a new factory and warehouse that it will build up over the fall and have up and running by January.

BLOOMINGTON, MN (BRAIN) — What is a gravel bike, and why would anyone want one?
Events’ massive popularity in Europe bolsters industry, local economies
Editor's note: The following article was published in the May 15 issue of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
Editor's note: The following article first appeared in the May 1 issue of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News.
MONTEREY, CA—The last eight months have been a trying and uncertain time for Matt Bracken, Jim Hale and Jay Seiter.
Editor's note: The following article originally appeared in the May 15 issue of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News