Issue 398 | November 2022
WELCOME…
As someone who once captained a Sunday football team to a 13-month losing streak, the non-competitive element of sportives certainly appeals to my languid sporting mindset. And yet there’s something about actual racing, against humans or clocks, that always brings a heightened thrill, from squeezing into that aero jersey to the starting-line tension and mid-ride tactics. This month Mark Bailey discovers the very best advice for anyone wanting to take on hill climbs, time trials, road racing or track events this autumn and beyond. Just don’t forget the safety pins…
Titanium, magnesium, steel and alloy bikes battle in the big test 
Riding in one of the world’s great cycling cities, Copenhagen 
John takes on the new London to Paris gravel event
Your experts
John Whitney
Deputy editor
Long-serving CP staffer John’s been busy this summer, riding in the cycling utopia that is Copenhagen, plus testing his gravel chops in a new London to Paris event.
Warren Rossiter
Senior tech editor
Is there more to life than carbon-framed bikes? Our reviews expert Warren thinks so, testing a quartet of options boasting magnesium, steel, alloy and titanium.