Matt Ischt-Barnard
Like so many, Matt got his start in the bicycle industry wheedling allen keys and the occasional hammer at his local bike shop. Matt grew up mountain biking in the flint-strewn hills of the North Downs, but was convinced during his time with Evans Cycles' in-house brands Pinnacle and Hoy Bikes to take up gravel cycling and bikepacking. Spotting the changing industry, Matt jumped at the opportunity to become an E-bike designer, and won several awards with Cairn Cycles and their range of gravel E-bikes.
These days, Matt will more than likely have a toddler sat shotgun and a balance bike lassoed to his back somewhere on the South Downs. What time he does get to ride for himself, he chooses to take his Sonder Camino to just about anywhere that's quiet, off the beaten track or with some historical point of interest.
Latest articles by Matt Ischt-Barnard
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Best rim brake pads for road bikes 2025: better braking performance no matter the weather for carbon and alloy rims
Looking for better braking performance no matter whether it’s wet or dry? We’ve rounded up the best rim brake pads for road bikes
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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All the best January bike deals: our deal-hunting elves are here delivering all the best offers from brands like Van Rysel, Garmin and Rapha
Hit the ground running in the New Year and kickstart your resolutions with these amazing deals from the likes of Sigma Sports, Competitive Cyclist & REI
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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2024's most hyped bike, the Van Rysel RCR is going out with a bang, discounted by up to £1001 in the Decathlon after-Christmas sale
The WorldTour's most affordable bike has attracted more interest than any other in 2024 and now you can get it for even less
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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The HoverAir X1 drone is at its lowest price ever and you can still get it before Christmas with Amazon Prime
Amazon UK has 24% off the HoverAir X1, a jersey pocket-sized drone that will capture stunning images as you pedal away below
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Prevelo Alpha Zero balance bike review: A little red rocket that will help build confidence and inspire kids to ride
A well-thought-out balance bike that offers value far beyond the specification sheet
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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I am a cyclist and this is what I actually want for Christmas
Take the Campagnolo corkscrew, the novelty socks and the 100 greatest climbs book out of your basket. This is my guide to what cyclists actually want this Christmas.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Best puncture-proof tyres for cycling 2025: add some peace of mind to your commute or road riding with some additional protection against punctures
Need a reliable tire? We’ve selected the best puncture-proof tires for commuting and road riding
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Christmas gifts for cyclists 2025: With Christmas rapidly approaching here are some last-minute gift ideas for the bike-obsessed
Here's our handy guide to the best Christmas gifts for the bike-obsessed, and where to buy them
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best chain lubes for bikes 2025: Wet, dry and all-round lubricants for every condition
We round up the best chain lube for your bike and get to grips with the slippery subject of choosing a wet or dry chain lube
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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They think it's all over but wait all these Cyber Monday Bike Deals are still live
We're seeking out all the best Cyber Monday bike deals for cyclists
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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We've found all the best Cyber Monday cycling shoe deals for 2024: Massive discounts on Shimano, Specialized and Giro
There are some huge savings available with discounts on the best cycling shoes and clothing during Cyber Monday
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Cyber Monday cycling smartwatch deals: We've found the biggest savings from Garmin, Apple, Fitbit and more
Smartwatches make great riding partners, they track speed and distance, show you the way, record your heart rate, monitor your sleep and help you recover
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Fancy saving over $300 on a Cervélo Áspero GRX 610 gravel bike that is higher spec than stock and for less than $2900 this Cyber Monday?
Okay there is a catch, you have to build it yourself and shop around to get the best deals but it features some of our highest-rated products from brands like Hunt Bike Wheels, Ergon, WTB & Lizard Skins
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Stainless steel bottles are a steal this Cyber Monday - Get up to 26% off Camelback's metal bidon
The idea of insulated bottles is appealing, so with 26% off at Amazon, I thought I'd give them a try
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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This Black Friday, exercise bike discounts are super low, so don't delay because these prices won't last forever - here are some of the very best deals we've found
A roundup of all the best exercise bike deals to be had this Black Friday
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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First Rapha, now Le Col. Save up to 40% this Black Friday on a range of cycling clothing and accessories
Le Col is one of many direct-to-consumer clothing brands offering big discounts this Black Friday, with up to 40% off across the UK and US sites
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Best bike bags and boxes for cycling travel 2025
Protect your bike and reduce stress when you travel with one of these best bike bags and boxes
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best cycling vests 2025: extra warmth when you need it
Cycling vests are one of the most flexible pieces of clothing in your cycling wardrobe. We explain what should you be looking for and round up our favourites.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best bike cleaning kits for a sparkling finish 2025
The best bike cleaning kits will keep your steed clean, well oiled and in perfect working order
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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First ride review: Skarper e-bike conversion kit. After 3 years in development and £12.8m of investment, it's finally ready
With an investment of £12.8m, 3 years to engineer and involvement from Red Bull Advanced Technologies and Sir Chris Hoy. Was it worth the wait?
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Published
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Best smart indoor trainers 2025: Our pick of the best direct-drive smart turbo trainers
Elevate your riding this winter, take a tour of Watopia on Zwift or tackle the Stelvio with Rouvy using one of the best indoor trainers.
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated
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Best mudguards/fenders for gravel bikes 2025: Our recommendations to protect 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 mudguards/fenders for Road Bikes this fall and winter 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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Amazon Prime Day cycling deals 2024 - They think it's all over, well these deals are all still live!
Prime Day might be officially over but these deals are all still live
By Matt Ischt-Barnard Last updated