Ben Gibbons
Deputy Editor at BikeTips
Ben has toured extensively throughout the United Kingdom, French Alps, and the Pyrenees, ticking off as many iconic cycling mountains as he can find. He currently lives in the Picos de Europa of Spain’s Asturias region, a stone’s throw from the legendary Altu de L’Angliru – a spot that allows him to watch the Vuelta a España roll past his doorstep each summer.
As a qualified sports massage therapist and personal trainer with eight years of experience in the field, Ben plays a leading role in BikeTips’ injury and recovery content.
Ben’s latest articles:
Cycling Prehab: Injury Prevention Exercises for Cyclists
Every cyclist will eventually deal with an injury if they ride long enough, but the …
Paris-Roubaix 2026 Preview: Pogačar vs Van der Poel in a Battle for History
The 2026 Paris-Roubaix rolls out this Sunday, April 12, and the Queen of the Classics …
Gravel Cycling for Beginners: A Complete Guide
Gravel cycling is the fastest-growing discipline in the sport, and for good reason. It combines …
Cycling on a Budget: A Complete Guide to Riding Without Breaking the Bank
Cycling has a reputation as an expensive hobby, and a quick glance at professional bikes …
Ganna Storms Past Van Aert in Final Metres to Win Dwars door Vlaanderen
Filippo Ganna produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the 2026 Spring Classics season, …
Paris-Roubaix 2026: Van der Poel Chases 4th Win as Unbeaten Pogačar Eyes History
Sunday’s Paris-Roubaix will feature the most compelling rivalry in modern cycling: Mathieu van der Poel …
Titanium Gravel Bikes Are Back: Why 2026 Is the Year of the Ti Renaissance
After years of carbon fiber dominance, titanium is staging a remarkable comeback in the gravel …
Cannondale CAAD14: The Aluminium Road Bike That’s Redefining Affordable Racing in 2026
Cannondale relaunched its legendary CAAD series in early 2026 with the CAAD14, a stripped-down, performance-focused …
Can 19-Year-Old Paul Seixas Win the Itzulia? A GC Deep Dive
Paul Seixas is nineteen years old. He has never ridden a professional stage race before …
Cycling Nutrition: What to Eat Before, During, and After Rides
You can have the lightest bike, the most aerodynamic position, and the highest FTP in …
Indoor Cycling Training Plans: Getting the Most From Structured Workouts
When the weather turns cold, the rain sets in, or daylight disappears, indoor cycling keeps …
Night Riding Safety: Visibility Tips and Strategies for Cyclists
Cycling after dark does not have to be dangerous, but it does require deliberate preparation. …
Can Pogačar Win All 5 Cycling Monuments in 2026? Here’s What’s at Stake
Tadej Pogačar has already won the Tour de France three times, the Giro d’Italia, and …
Amstel Gold Race 2026: Preview, Favorites, and What to Watch
The Spring Classics season isn’t over yet. With Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix generating the …
Building Confidence as a New Female Cyclist: A Complete Guide
Getting into cycling as a woman can feel intimidating. The sport’s culture, marketing, and group …
Ganna Catches Van Aert in Final 100m for Stunning Dwars Door Vlaanderen Victory
Filippo Ganna delivered one of the most dramatic finishes in Classics history on Wednesday, chasing …
Bikepacking for Beginners: How to Plan Your First Overnight Ride
There is a moment on every bikepacking trip — usually a few hours into the …
Bianchi Returns to the WorldTour: Inside Bahrain Victorious’ Three-Bike Arsenal for 2026
Bianchi, the world’s oldest bicycle manufacturer, has returned to the UCI WorldTour as technical sponsor …
E-Bike Commuting: The Complete Guide to Riding to Work
Commuting by e-bike is one of the fastest-growing transportation trends in the world, and for …
Zone 2 Training for Cyclists: The Science-Backed Guide to Building Endurance
Zone 2 training has become one of the most talked-about training methodologies in cycling, and …
Berd Polymer Spokes Go Pro: The Lightest Wheel Tech in Cycling Hits WorldTour
One of the most intriguing technology stories of the 2026 cycling season isn’t about drivetrains, …
Gravel Cycling for Beginners: A Complete Guide
Gravel cycling has exploded from a niche pursuit into one of the fastest-growing segments of …
Best Gravel Bike Tires: Width, Tread, and Tubeless Guide
Find the best gravel bike tires for your riding style. Complete guide to tire width, tread patterns, tubeless setup, and pressure for every type of gravel terrain.
Wout van Aert at Paris-Roubaix 2026: Can He Finally Win Hell of the North?
Wout van Aert has never won Paris-Roubaix. That sentence still feels strange to type, given …
32-Inch Gravel Wheels: The Biggest Bike Tech Story of 2026 Explained
Gravel cycling has always been defined by a willingness to experiment — with geometry, with …
Tour of Flanders 2026 Preview: Can Pogačar Defend Against Van der Poel and Van Aert?
On Sunday April 5, the cycling world’s attention turns to Belgium for the Tour of …
Trek Checkpoint SL Gen 3: Trek’s Most Advanced Gravel Bike Yet
Trek has just launched what it calls “the most advanced gravel machine we have ever …
Filippo Ganna Hunts Down Wout van Aert in Final Metres to Win Dwars door Vlaanderen 2026
In one of the most dramatic finales in recent Classic history, Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) …
Gravel Bike vs Road Bike: Which Is Right for You?
Gravel bike vs road bike — it’s one of the most common questions among cyclists …
LOOK Launches Dedicated Gravel Pedals: X-One-G and X-Venture+ Explained
LOOK has finally answered the call from gravel cyclists everywhere: dedicated pedals designed specifically for …
Best Cycling Destinations in the US: Epic Routes for Every Rider
The United States is a genuinely extraordinary cycling destination — from the sun-soaked canyon roads …
Pogačar Overhauled His Entire Paris-Roubaix Bike Setup — Here’s What Changed and Why
With Paris-Roubaix just eleven days away, Tadej Pogačar has made a decision that surprised many …
Paris-Roubaix 2026 Preview: Can Anyone Stop Pogačar at the Hell of the North?
With Tadej Pogačar already having claimed Milan-San Remo in devastating fashion — attacking on the …
Gravel Cycling for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know
Gravel cycling has exploded in popularity over the past five years, transforming how cyclists explore …
Best Gravel Bike Tires: A Complete Guide to Width, Tread, and Setup
Choosing the right tires is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to …
Why 32mm Tires and 1x Drivetrains Are Taking Over Road Cycling
The road cycling world has collectively agreed on something that would have been heretical five …
Felt Unveils New Aero Road Bike Claimed 5% Faster With 32mm Tire Clearance
Felt has unveiled a new aero road bike for 2026 that the brand claims delivers …
Gravel Bike vs Road Bike: Which Is Right for You?
If you are standing in a bike shop — or scrolling through an endless catalog …
Salsa Flyway 2026: The Fifth-Gen Carbon Gravel Bike Built for All-Day Adventures
Salsa Cycles has officially launched the fifth-generation Salsa Flyway carbon gravel bike in March 2026, …
UCI Gravel World Series Explodes to 45 Events in 32 Countries — Worlds Head to Australia
The UCI GravelKing Gravel World Series has expanded to 45 events across 32 countries for …
E-Bike Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Electric Bike
E-Bike Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Electric Bike The electric bike market has …
Gravel Cycling: The Complete Guide to Getting Started and Going Further
Gravel cycling is the fastest-growing discipline in the sport — and for good reason. It …
How to Descend on a Road Bike: 12 Tips for Faster, Safer Descents
Master road bike descending with these 12 expert techniques. Learn correct body position, braking, cornering lines, and how to build confidence on fast descents.
How To Store A Bike: Indoor, Outdoor & Long-Term Storage Solutions
Proper bike storage protects your investment, keeps your components in good working order, and frees …
Pogačar Wins Milan-San Remo 2026 in Electrifying Sprint Finish Against Pidcock
Tadej Pogačar has done it again. The Slovenian superstar claimed victory at Milan-San Remo on …
How to Descend Safely on a Road Bike: A Complete Guide
Climbing might be where you build fitness, but descending is where you can truly enjoy …
Drafting in Cycling: How to Ride in a Paceline
Drafting is one of the most fundamental skills in road cycling, and mastering it can …
How to Choose the Right Bike Size: A Complete Sizing Guide
Getting the right bike size is arguably the single most important decision you will make …
Group Ride Etiquette: The Complete Guide to Riding in a Pack
Group riding is one of cycling’s greatest pleasures—the camaraderie, the shared energy, the simple joy …
Group Ride Etiquette: 12 Unwritten Rules Every Cyclist Should Know
Joining a group ride for the first time can be equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. …
Solid-State Batteries to Smart Features: How E-Bikes Are Evolving in 2026
Electric bikes have come a long way since the clunky, heavy machines that first appeared …
Cycling for Mental Health: How Riding Boosts Your Mood and Reduces Stress
Most cyclists will tell you that they feel better after a ride. What they might …
Cycling Hand Signals: The Complete Guide For Road And Group Rides
Clear communication on the road is essential for every cyclist, whether you are riding solo …
Can Pregnant Women Ride Bikes? Everything You Need To Know About Bike Riding While Pregnant
Pregnancy is a time of massive change, and this comes with a lot of excitement …
Is Cycling Every Day Too Much? How Often Should You Cycle
If you’ve succumbed to the infectious allure of cycling, you know the routine – waking …
Giro d’Italia 2024 Route: Stage By Stage Analysis
The eagerly anticipated Giro d’Italia 2024 route has been revealed. Unlike the eye-watering Tour de France or Vuelta routes, this year’s course appears more balanced, which may foster more aggressive racing and attract grand tour superstars.
The Wall, Manayunk: America’s Most Iconic Climb
In the heart of Philadelphia, nestled along the Schuylkill River, there lies a stretch of road that has found itself a special place in cycling folklore – the infamous ascent known simply as “The Wall” in Manayunk. From the inception of the Philadelphia International Championship to the legendary battles fought by cyclists like Greg Henderson and Lance Armstrong, this steep, winding climb has etched its place in the history of American cycling, weaving tales of triumph, agony, and sheer determination.
Cycling Knee Pain: Everything You Need To Know
For many, myself included, cycling is a passion, a lifestyle, and a vital way of …
Vuelta a España 2024 Route Revealed: A Climber’s Dream Race
The Vuelta a España 2024 route was revealed in Madrid last week – and if you’re a sprinter or a die-hard fan of a sprint-focused team, you’re going to hate it. Prepare for an unforgettable spectacle as the world’s top cyclists compete for glory in this thrilling edition of the Vuelta a España.
Fasted Workouts for Cyclists: Everything You Need To Know
Fasted training, or “fasted cardio,” involves engaging in exercise on an empty stomach, usually in the morning, following an overnight fast. In this in-depth analysis, I’ll explore the essential knowledge you need about fasted workouts for cyclists, delving into the science, pros and cons, and who should consider incorporating this approach into their training regimen.
Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To Bike Camping
Bike camping combines the freedom of backpacking and the enjoyment of cycling into one adventurous traveling experience. Having completed countless bike camping trips all over Europe and beyond, I’m here to share the lessons and experiences I’ve picked up along the way to help you have a great first adventure for yourself!
The Effects of Cycling on Body Shape, Explained by a Strength & Conditioning Coach
Cycling is an incredibly popular form of low-impact cardiovascular exercise, which not only offers an …
How To Train For A Triathlon: Comprehensive Guide
Learning how to train for a triathlon can be daunting. A complete training program should include well-adapted training frequencies, training philosophies, and nutrition strategies. If you’re considering participating in a triathlon, but don’t know where to start, have no fear! We’ve got you covered.
Does Cycling Build Muscle – And What Muscles Does Biking Work?
In short: Yes, cycling does build muscle. However, it’s arguably more important to understand how and why cycling builds muscle, which muscle groups cycling works, and – equally importantly – which ones it doesn’t.
Muscle Imbalances and Cycling: Essential Tips for Strengthening and Injury Prevention
As an experienced personal trainer and sports massage therapist, I have witnessed firsthand the impact …
Pogačar completes historic hat-trick at Il Lombardia with epic solo attack
Tadej Pogačar of UAE Team Emirates made history by securing his third consecutive Giro di Lombardia victory with a remarkable solo performance. Il Lombardia is the final opportunity for riders to make their mark before the season concludes, and Pogačar did just that, beating a stellar field of experienced riders.
SRAM MTB Groupset Hierarchy (Eagle): Ultimate Guide
SRAM mountain bike groupset components are consistently ranked among the best of the best ever since they shrugged off tradition and redesigned drivetrains. To help you get to grips with the SRAM MTB groupset hierarchy, we’ll be walking you through each one.
Is Cycling Good For SI Joint Pain?
Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain can be a real pain in the backside, leaving you possibly unable to cycle for weeks – or, in some cases, months. SI-related issues may be related to cycling for riders; in others, cycling may help alleviate or heal symptoms. But that leaves many cyclists wondering: Is cycling good for SI joint pain?
Vuelta a España 2023: Sepp Kuss Protected as Evenepoel Shines in Stage 18 Solo Win
A resilient and determined Remco Evenepoel dominated the day, conquering each summit as it arose, sealing the KOM competition atop La Cruz de Linares. However, the biggest question hanging over the day after the Stage 17 drama was whether Sepp Kuss’ red jersey would be attacked by his Jumbo-Visma teammates, Jonas Vingegaard and Primož Roglič.
Alto de L’Angliru: The “Inhuman” Beast of the Vuelta a España
The Alto de L’Angliru deserves its reputation as the most brutal climb in professional cycling. Often referred to simply as “The Angliru”, it’s a mythical mountain pass in the La Vega-Riosa region of Asturias, part of the Sierra del Aramo range of northern Spain’s Cantabrian Mountains.
Vuelta A España 2023: Jonas Vingegaard Reigns Supreme In Jumbo-Visma Stage 13 Masterclass
Jonas Vingegaard crossed the line in first, laying down a dazzling performance in his favorite …
Vuelta a España 2023: Remco Evenepoel Injured in Freak Crash After Brilliant Stage 3 Win
Remco Evenepoel (Soudal-QuickStep) launched a blistering attack on the final hairpin of the mighty Arinsal, …
Vuelta a España 2023: Torrential Triumph for DSM-Firmenich in Stage 1 Time Trial
In a thrilling display of strength and teamwork, the Dutch powerhouse DSM-Firmenich defied the onslaught of torrential rain to secure a stunning victory on the opening stage of the Vuelta a España.
Vuelta a España 2023 Start List: Teams + Riders In Full
The Vuelta a España 2023 start list has a star-studded lineup, with certain teams arriving with depth, experience, and talent – while others will be arriving with a slightly underwhelming set of riders for the race.
Vuelta a España Bikes 2023: Bikes and Equipment for Every Team
In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the bikes and components used by the Vuelta a España 2023 teams. We’ll delve into the sea of lightweight carbon frames, electronic groupsets, and deep-rim wheels, shining some light on what each pro team uses.
Will Cycling 1 Hour A Day Help You Lose Weight?
Cycling is an efficient, low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise and is a great tool to utilize when it comes to burning calories. Today we will discuss the science of cycling and its role in weight loss, the pros and cons of cycling 1 hour a day for weight loss, and the other health implications.
UCI World Championships 2023: van der Poel Soloes To Victory Despite Crash
Dutch cyclist Mathieu van der Poel showcased an incredible display of resilience after a dramatic crash to secure victory in the men’s road race at the Cycling World Championships in Glasgow, solidifying his legendary status in the sport.
Race Across America: Everything You Need To Know About An Ultra-Endurance Icon
The Race Across America (RAAM) is a grueling ultra-endurance bicycle race that takes participants on an epic expedition across the United States. The race traverses approximately 4800 km (3000 miles) from the west coast of America to the east as fast as your legs will carry you!
Bikepacking The Colorado Trail: What To Know Before You Go
Biking the Colorado Trail is a bucket list adventure for any daring bikepacker willing to take it on. This 500-mile trail takes you through some of the most breathtaking tracks in the Rocky Mountains, with majestic peaks, glistening streams, and vibrant wildflowers at every turn. Don’t get it twisted; it’s not all beautiful wildflowers, this is no easy ride!
Land’s End to John o’Groats Cycle Guide: Everything You Need To Know About The LEJoG Route
Thinking of cycling the length of the UK? Well, look no further. Whilst we can’t …
Ultimate North Coast 500 Cycle Guide
Thinking of bikepacking the North Coast 500 cycle route? The North Coast 500 is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes Scotland has to offer. You’ll encounter incredible wildlife, stunning scenery, and charming towns and villages, all while challenging yourself physically and mentally. If you’re up for an adventure, this is one route you won’t want to miss.
What Is Downhill Mountain Biking? Everything You Need To Know
With enormous jumps, steep drops, and head-to-toe body armor, downhill mountain biking is one of the most exciting and dangerous disciplines in the sport of cycling. Expect to witness high speeds and narrow passages, with riders carving down mountains or through tightly packed urban cities.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway: Ultimate Cyclist’s Guide to the Highest Paved Road in the USA
Attempting to ride the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is no joke. The road is the highest paved road in the USA, and as such, it will present unique challenges to anyone looking to tackle it.
Haute Route Alps 2023: The Ultimate Amateur Bike Race
The Haute Route Alps is fast making a name for itself as the most challenging amateur cycling race in the world. The Haute Route Series feature 3, 5, and 7-day cycling events, which will bring a tear to the eye of most seasoned riders. Eleven years since they began, these multi-day stage races have it all; monumental mountains, famous climbs, and fellow riders from all over the world.
Mont Ventoux: Ultimate Cyclist’s Guide
A brutally steep mountain that pierces the Provence countryside, Mont Ventoux is an outlier that can be seen for miles, disrupting the scenic rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Also known as “Giant of Provence”, it’s a worthy challenge for any cyclist and home to some of the sport’s richest history, and should not be underestimated.
The Hautacam Climb: Ultimate Cyclist’s Guide
The Hautacam is a sensational climb and one on the bucket list of many cyclists due to its infamous history and testing gradients. Although it is not as long as nearby behemoths such as the Col du Tourmalet, it still packs a punch. It is well known for boasting an abundance of steep gradients, which are littered at random points throughout the climb.
Col du Galibier: Ultimate Cyclist’s Guide
Planning on cycling the Col du Galibier? It’s an epic feat that should not be underestimated. Though not the steepest climb, it is one of the longest, a seemingly never-ending battle of attrition that will slowly eat away at your legs.
Gospel Pass: Cycling Guide to the Highest Road in Wales
Gospel Pass lies within the Black Mountains in Brecon Beacon National Park, between Hay-on-Wye and the Stanton. The climb may not be as long or steep as other famous climbs in the UK, such as Hardknott Pass or Bealach-Na-Ba, but it is certainly beautiful, with panoramic vistas and lush green mountains as far as the eye can see. Gospel Pass is Wales’s highest road and one of the great climbs in British cycling.
Britain’s Greatest Climb: Ultimate Guide to Cycling Bealach-Na-Ba (Applecross Pass)
Planning on cycling Bealach-Na-Ba? It’s an epic feat that should not be underestimated. It is …
The Hardknott Pass Cycle Route: Britain’s Toughest Climb
So you want to cycle Hardknott Pass? Nestled deep within the Lake District, situated between …
1x Drivetrains For Bikes: What’s The Benefit?
1x drivetrains seem to be growing in popularity with every passing year. Bicycles traditionally feature …
What Is A Crit In Cycling? The Complete Guide To Criteriums – And How To Prepare For One
Criterium bike races – also known as “crits” – are becoming increasingly popular worldwide. Tearing …
Alpe d’Huez: The Tour de France’s Most Intimidating Climb
Conquering Alpe d’Huez is often top on the bucket list of anyone who has fallen …
Ultimate SRAM Groupset Guide: Road Bike Edition
Though younger than its major rivals Shimano and Campagnolo, SRAM has fully established itself with …
What Was The Bike Boom – And Why Did It Matter?
From the mid-’60s to the early ’70s, the US experienced an unprecedented explosion in cycling …