News
2010 Archived News
Also known as the "chip-wrapper". Some of the stories from this year.
October 03 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
No Fuss Tour de Ben Nevis 2011 – The final word…
A week has passed and the Tour de Ben Nevis is still fresh in everyone’s minds. The start line procession down the high street, pinballing down the first special stage to Kinlochleven, the dreaded river crossing, and the relief after negotiating the Rocky Brae back to the safety of the finish line. A race to respect and an achievement to be proud of…
September 30 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
No Fuss Tour de Ben Nevis 2011 - Adam’s Story…
At the World Cup in Fort William in July I shook hands with John to do the Tour de Ben Nevis after having a beer or two. Well I thought it would be OK...
September 29 2011 - posted by John Chennells
No Fuss Tour de Ben Nevis 2011 - John’s Story…
It all started on a wander down the high street at this year's Fort William World Cup. Adam suggested to me that it might be a good idea to do the Tour de Ben Nevis, was I up for it? For some daft reason we grinned and shook hands committing ourselves to the challenge. How hard could it be?
September 14 2011 - posted by John Chennells
Hamsterley 1-2-1 - Racing the way it should be
If you went down to the woods in Hamsterley a weekend or two ago you wouldn’t have stumbled upon a hoard of teddy bears laying out jam sandwiches, instead, the long trek down the dark and shady approach road led to a little bit of mountain biking heaven.
September 12 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Wideopen Magazine Issue 16
The latest Wideopen Magazine is finally here with the usual selection of inspirational photography, carefully crafted words, and enough product to keep everyone happy. Have a flick through for free...
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September 08 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange Bikes - Eurobike 2011
The biggest bicycle show in the world is an opportunity to show everyone what we've been up to for the past few months. A new road bike due soon, urban bike concepts, 29er prototypes and the usual full suspension finery...
September 06 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Enduro racing with MTB Centre Finland
Orange Bikes distributor and general mountain bike evangelist Tatu Suonpää is constantly telling us about the enduro scene in Finland. Forever teasing us with tails from the trails, it seemed like a good time to find out more about what's going on from MTB Centre Finland...
September 05 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Joe Barnes Euro Blog - Part Three
Joe Barnes and the Dudes of Hazard have had a long summer of travelling as they go Europe-wide with their own unique brand of adventure. "F*ck it boys we're going to Sweden"...
August 24 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Calum Darling works for Alpine Bikes, he also makes videos…
Calum Darling works for Alpine Bikes in Edinburgh and with a couple of great edits under his belt, we liked his latest holiday effort. A few questions and a collection of his Orange Bikes themed videos. Definitely one to watch...
August 15 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Dudes of Hazard and some Euro teasing…
The Dudes of Hazard have taken the video making world by storm with their very real tales from the trails. Such classics as Pee with a View and Longest Skid, there'll be plenty of hilarity with some fantastic riding and racing to fill the gaps. Joe Barnes sends in his latest update.
August 12 2011 - posted by Michael
“So who’s the Joy Division fan?” The story of a brochure cover
Ever since we published the 2011 brochure we’ve been asked “who’s the Joy Division fan and why did you use it ?” So, Michael Bonney and John Chennells have finally got around to writing up who was responsible and explain what the design represents and how we came to use it.
August 10 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
MTBcut’s Ben Cathro, La Bresse World Cup
MTBcut rider and World Cup ripper Ben Cathro had a stormer at La Bresse, taking his first top ten since Fort William three seasons ago. He clocks in with this report from the weekend...
August 02 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
The No Fuss Events Endurance DH 2011
It’s the third year Orange Bikes have headed North for the No Fuss Events Hope Endurance downhill at Fort William. Factory representative Dave Flynn continues the factory banter with a mild rant and an eagerness to get back and do it all again...
July 27 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Chris Hutchens reports…
A firm favourite amongst the hardy few, and with teammate and two-time winner James Shirley out of action, Chris was keen to keep the fag flying for TCJ/Orange at the No Fuss Events Endurance DH, he did it with style...
July 26 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Joe Barnes Euro Blog - Part Two
Joe Barnes is on his summertime Euro mission, riding the Mega and Mountain of Hell all goes well, but it's not plain sailing in the Landship...
July 13 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
The 2011 No Fuss Events 10@Kirroughtree
The 10@Kirroughtree is our favourite event on the calendar, an opportunity to ride some fantastic trails, meet up with friends, and generally enjoy the humorous ambience that is a No Fuss Events endurance race. The motivation this year? To enjoy the racing, pull some good skids, test our 2012 hardtails, and heckle the usual suspects...
July 12 2011 - posted by Ben Chennells
The 2011 Shimano Singletrack Classic Weekender
Ben Chennells is our graphic designer John's son. He volunteered a write up of the Shimano Singletrack Classic Weekender which saw our contingent of Dan Greenwood, Vaughan Evans, Ben and his dad take on Bacup's finest at Lee Quarry.
July 12 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Joe Barnes rides Ben A’an
Joe Barnes is known for his downhill skills, but his flair on a trail bike sets him apart from the wider gravity-fuelled crowd. Not content in riding the hardest trails in Fort William, Joe heads to Ben A'an to test the limits of the Orange Patriot. Natural riding at its best...
July 07 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Joe Barnes Euro Blog
Joe Barnes and friends are on the road and trucking towards the Mega. Not content with one major race, they stopped off at the Vaujany Avalanche Enduro to do battle on the way. Breakdowns, ice creams and podiums...
June 30 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
King of the Mountains 2011…
The King of the Mountains is all about being a great cyclist, an opportunity for the generalists to find their niche. Sign up for three No Fuss events and begin your bid to win an Orange Five frame, jack-of-all-trades apply within...
June 30 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
2012 Orange Diva
The 2012 Diva is back with a sharp new look and the same great features. Delivering everything you’d expect from an Orange hardtail, just refined for the perfect womens specific trail setup.
June 29 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Cathro speed reports…
Ben Cathro and Fraser McGlone go straight from the quiet backwater of Llangollen to the World Cup honeypot of Mont Sainte Anne, the travels continue...
June 21 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
The return of the Orange Patriot
The Orange Patriot is back in the range and available from July 1st. Taking its place between the Alpine 160 and 224, the Patriot is the hard riding big-mountain machine. Get the preview now, full specs and details to follow...
June 13 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
James Shirley Fort William Chest Cam
Last weekend James Shirley had the perfect day job; course sweeping at the Fort William UCI World Cup. All the glamour of riding in front of a home crowd without any of the race day pressure. Check his chest cam inside, rapid...
June 10 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Fort William World Cup, the randoms…
Fort William is never just about the racing, with so much going on it's great to meet up with old friends, ride some trails and look at shiny new things. Here's a few extra shots...
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June 09 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Fort William World Cup, MTBcut 2011
The World Cup series made its tenth pilgrimage to Fort William. The usual suspects were on form, but with a fresh crop of mega pinners riding on the edge, upset was always on the cards. Ben Cathro, Joe Barnes and Fraser McGlone were representing for MTBcut, and with local knowledge on their side, they’re always exciting to watch…
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May 30 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Spanish testing with Ben Cathro and Fraser McGlone
The start of the season saw Ben Cathro and Fraser McGlone escape the rain of Scotland and go playing around Malaga, Spain. Watch some of the action...
May 22 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Ben Lomond to South Africa with MTBcut
The MTBcut team get together for an early season jaunt up Ben Lomond on their trail bikes. Rocky descents, driving rain and punctures make the trip an epic. In search of sunnier climes, Fraser McGlone heads out for his first World Cup race in South Africa, with Ben Cathro getting all graphic about supposed dysentery...
May 18 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
CycleActive course for aspiring young rippers
CycleActive are a veritable coaching powerhouse with over 10 years experience helping riders step up to the next level whatever their starting point. Instilling confidence is the mainstay of progression, and if you're confident in the fundamentals, you'll soon find yourself improving quicker than you imagined. CycleActive are trying to encourage the future, time to roll in the 11-16 year olds...
May 10 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Ae Forest - UK Gravity Enduro Series
The inaugural round of the UK Gravity Enduro Series takes place at Ae Forest. Wet weather and a tough course makes for a good time with thrills and spills aplenty...
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May 02 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
IXS MacAvalanche, Glencoe
No Fuss are well known for putting on some of the best outdoor events in the UK, from endurance downhill races to all day XC epics in the hills. This is their newest interpretation of what’s possible in the mountains, a crazy race from the very top of the Glencoe Ski resort. Let the carnage commence…
April 27 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Wideopen Magazine Issue 15
The latest issue of Wideopen is a great excuse to make a coffee, put up your feet, and trawl through a textual and photographic treat. Issue fifteen has only gone and done it again with the usual race reports, trail features, and a look at the new Orange 322 prototype downhill bike. Jamie Edwards snatched a few crafty shots at the first round of the Halo British Downhill Series and got the low down from our very own "marketing" moguel Michael Bonney.
April 20 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
SDA Series Round 1 Ae Forest
The SDA series kicked off last weekend on a slippy Sturday morning at Ae Forest. A quickly drying track with a few freshy taped lines brought thrills and spills during practise, but a ridiculously quick track for race runs. Write up inside…
April 13 2011 - posted by John Chennells
Joe Barnes vs Larry the Lamb
Any downhill race is packed with incidents, big stacks, nearly stacked and 'Phew! Didn't stack.' saves. Here's an unusual one...
April 11 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Halo British Downhill Series Moelfre Hall
The Halo British Downhill Series headed to Moelfre Hall near Oswestry for a scorching second round. MTBcut riders Ben Cathro, Joe Barnes and Fraser McGlone were all in attendance, throwing their prototype Orange 322 team bikes down a ridiculously quick track to take on a 370 strong packed field of riders. Read the full report inside…
April 06 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Alpine Bikes Winter Series: A race within a race…
This weekend was the final round of the Alpine Bikes Winter Series. A great track greeted competitors as it snaked its way between the famous trails of Innerleithen. All the usual suspects were present, plus the factory trio, two of us racing for the first time…
March 31 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Lusty Industries Season Wrap Up
The Australian contingent have had a few highs and lows this season. This is their last report and roundup as racing draws to an end.
March 28 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Special Edition Five Pro Blackout
Looking for an even more exclusive Five Pro build? The limited edition Blackout adds a special touch, Ti bolted Hope brake system, a lustrous black paint job and the usual suspension finery as standard on the Orange Five. Black always was the new black...
March 23 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
MTBcut rider Ben Cathro, on the mic and on the bike…
Ben Cathro has written an account of the MTBcut weekend festivities at the first round of the Halo British Downhill Series at Nant Gwrtheyrn. Ben's words, Phunkt's photos, and a great video from Wideopen Magazine.
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March 21 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Halo British Downhill Series Nant Gwrtheyrn
The first round of the British Downhill Series brought an incredible turnout of riders with over forty Elite men making the trip to Nant Gwrtheyrn in North Wales. Driving into the venue brings some pretty breathtaking views, and with a challenging track, it was set to be a great weekend...
March 14 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Tonight: The Gadget Show, Orange Bikes and Guy Martin…
Rumour has it there will be some high performance mountain cycling on the Gadget Show tonight. Guy Martin, the TT racer and tea drinking superstar, will be ripping around on the latest trail bikes including the Orange Five.
If you missed it, watch again on the link inside.
March 10 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange Bikes, Privateer in store now…
When Tym Manley and Geoff Waugh rolled up to the factory we knew the questions would come thick and fast. Tym spent his time probing us, asking questions about how we came to work for Orange Bikes, what it means to be part of it and what makes us tick. Geoff set to work taking alternative angles, shots we hadn't seen before and imagery with no censorship, a sheet metal factory and bike company for what it is...
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March 09 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange Bikes, cycle to work with Cyclescheme…
The process more transparent than ever, Cyclescheme continues to be the most widely used path to getting a bicycle under a salary sacrifice scheme. Since the latest HMRC ‘market value clarification’, there’s been some confusion how much of a saving can be made, this news article will disambiguate some of the terminology, and spell out how to make the greatest possible saving…
March 08 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Urge Cabo Verde, Rowan Sorrell edit…
If you've been following the news pages you'll have seen Rowan Sorrell take his Alpine 160 on the adventure of a lifetime, a small invitational event on the Islands of Cape Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa. The organisers are releasing rider edits of all the action, this time it's Rowan's turn...
March 07 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Weekend That Was…
It’s been a busy old weekend with three great events up North. The Steel City DH, Kielder’s Gravity Enduro and the usual Innerleithen festivities from the Alpine Bikes Winter Series. To top it all off, three great demo days at Lee Quarry, Wendover Woods and MTBcentre, Finland. Reportage inside…
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March 01 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Behind the Ad…Privateer
Sometimes the ideas come easy, the image, the tagline, the story, it all lends itself to a particular purpose. This add was a little different, we didn’t want to push a certain bike, or one style of riding, just put something together that epitomised where we’re at as a company, something that reflected us, our bikes and our ethos. It also had to fit in with what Privateer is all about, a new mag that we really quite like…
February 25 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Privateer, claim your free copy…
"Privateer magazine is for mountain bikers who already know the obvious; for riders who have paid their dues in sweat and dust and broken bone, and are irrevocably hooked..."
February 25 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Random Friday Video
The Orange Bikes truck flies frequently to the Outdoor Capital of the UK, Fort William is a mecca for all things mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and climbing. When Stu from MTBcut made another promotional video, it seemed only right to post it up. Sir Jimmy Savile getting wild with his front flips...
February 24 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange G4 S hits Cycle-Scheme target
The Orange G4 S is a limited edition spec designed to hit the full Cycle-Scheme allowance squarely on the head. The Pure7 has filled the steel niche, but with the G3 model priced at £849, we needed something aluminium to maximise bang for the buck at the £1000 threshold, here's our answer...
February 24 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Urge Cabo Verde video
Orange Bikes and Mojo Suspension's Rowan Sorrell has just returned from the adventure of a lifetime, a small invitational event on the Islands of Cape Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa. Fabien Barel's humanitarian campaign has already seen events in Kenya and Nepal, raising awareness for poverty and hardship through the medium of mountain biking...
February 23 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Team Cycle Jersey Orange
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Team Cycle Jersey Orange will have two riders for their 2011 race campaign. James Shirley has been flying the Orange Bikes flag for a few seasons, specialising in endurance downhill and representing in XC. Chris Hutchens, an accomplished Elite DH rider, is shifting his attention towards the endurance scene and slotting in a couple of World Cup DH rounds where he can. Take a look inside and read James' pre-season report and a brief rundown on both riders...
February 16 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange People: Carl Barnes and Sian Hughes
Carl and Sian are well known faces in the mountains of the Portes du Soleil. Based in Morzine, they are the top guides when it comes to local trails or all day epics to Samoen, Flaine and beyond. Riding mountain bikes since the early days, they’ve seen new trends come and go, raced all kinds of disciplines, and continue to live their life around two wheeled pursuits. Cycling for many has gone full circle, Carl and Sian completed the cycle some time ago…
February 10 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange Elite Frame/Fork Package
The Orange Elite is an aluminium rocket ship, a race oriented hardtail that’s happy on the trails or the track. Pushing the limits of what’s possible with aluminium, it has been popular as a frame only option, with riders frequently requesting an accompanying fork and headset. We don't like to disappoint, check the Elite framset offer inside...
February 07 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Alpine Bikes Innerleithen Winter Series Rd.1
The DH crowd turned out for the first race of the series on the infamous Innerleithen hillside. Amongst the racers were MTBcut's Ben Cathro and new team mate Fraser McGlone. Boys did good...
February 06 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Orange Bikes demo day…suits you, Sir.
There is no shortage of choice when it comes to getting a new bike, so it's more important than ever to get out and find the right model for you. In the months leading up to the summer we roll out the demo fleet and journey around the country so more people than ever can have a bounce before they take the plunge. This weekend Adam Proctor travelled to Ambleside for the Bike Treks demo, tea on tap and constant sunshine...check the dates to see where Orange Bikes will be journeying next.
February 05 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Rowan Sorrell - Urge Cabo Verde - Episode Three
If you've been checking the news section regularly you'll already be familiar with Rowan's upcoming race in the Urge Cabo Verde invitational event. Rowan's been selected to represent the UK (and Wales) for an enduro race on the small Islands of Cabo Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa. Following races in Kenya and Nepal, the World's Best are heading off to raise money for organisations that work with kids in areas of sport and education. Riders joining Rowan will include a field of cycling legends including Hans Rey, Nico Vouilloz, Mark Weir, Sabrina Jonnier and Tracey Moseley. Check out Rowan's progress and his amazing Orange Bikes Alpine 160 build. Chris Porter also has his say with a few frame modifications to improve Rowan's ride...
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February 01 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Michael Bonney…10 year time warp
Michael Bonney is all things Orange Mountain Bikes with 16 years as the lynchpin of everything from marketing, product, and sponsorship right through to test riding and vital roles such as tea making and the sandwich run. To celebrate their 64th issue and ten years working out of their dedicated Todmorden office, Single Track Mountain Bike Magazine are bringing back bygone hair cuts and revisiting interviews and articles from their first issue. First up, an interview with the aforementioned Orange Bikes maestro, our very own Michael Bonney...
January 26 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Northern XC…
The Halifax riding crew get their tech on in the local hills. Lots of sliding, the occasional crash, and a liberal dose of humour.
January 20 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Urge Cabo Verde - Episode Two
Rowan Sorrell has been selected to represent the UK (and Wales) for a small invitational event on the small Islands of Cabo Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa. Following races in Kenya and Nepal, the World's Best are heading off in January to raise money for organisations that work with kids in areas of sport and education. In an effort to get fit he's been fitting in the odd training ride around his trail building antics, in the vid below he climbs some big Welsh hill before taking to the woods.
January 19 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Rick Boyer’s still storming…
Rick Boyer of Lusty Industries continues his domination down under taking another win at the second round of the Australian National DH Series. Rick and his trusty Team GoPro Orange 224 remain unbeaten, no pressure for round three then Rick?
January 13 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Fancy yourself as a 4X racer?
The guys at Wideopen Magazine are looking for a fresh new rider to join the ranks and team up with Dave Thomason on the NPS4X scene. Offering free entries, opportunities to write for the mag, support with parts and a rather shiny Orange MIII to race; get your entries in now...
January 12 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Urge Cabo Verde - Training Welshside…
Rowan Sorrell has been riding for Orange Bikes and gracing our brochure pages for some time now, and never have we seen him take training quite so seriously...
January 07 2011 - posted by Dave Flynn
Team GoPro Orange
Rick Boyer has been riding Orange downhill bikes since the very first 222, and as the Australian distributor for Orange Bikes he couldn't ride anything else on his new team. Rick Boyer and Graeme Mudd will be racing 224-evolution frames at all the National Rounds, Newtons Nation, the Vic State Champs and NSW State Series and Champs for 2011. Take a look at the press release inside...
December 25 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Merry Christmas
A very Merry Christmas from everyone at Orange Mountain Bikes.
December 23 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Recommended Christmas Reading
Wideopen magazine is one of the best quality online media sites and issue 14 of their free on-line mag has just hit the virtual doormat. Some prime reading for the festive season.
December 15 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Allan Findlay and the 2011 Five
Allan Findlay is a Junior downhill racer and took his 224 to glory in the infamous SDA series. Unfortunately for Allan, the prize in that category was another Orange downhill frame, something he definitely didn't need with his neon orange race machine already proving reliable in winning. So stumping up the difference himself, he decided to trade his prize for a Five. Scott MacPherson was on hand to document the first ride; a brutal trip down the Ae downhill track...
December 10 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Shooting Off Both Barrels
The Cane Creek Double Barrel (CCDB) came onto the scene a couple of seasons ago and quickly established itself as the industry leading coil shock. Another season in and we thought it was a good time to repost the initial press release on what drew us to offering the supershock, and our experiences riding the Cane Creek offering for another season. Hopefully this post will give you the information you need on whether the Cane Creek Double Barrel is for you.....
November 30 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Free CycraGuard Mudguards Offer
Winter has set in and as the novelty of night riding refuses to relent, so too does the muddy weather. So here's a December offer to help you avoid mud in your eye...
November 14 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
24 Hour World Solo MTB Championships
Keith Forsyth headed to Canberra, Australia to race the 24 hour Worlds. The experience sounds incredible and after months of preparation, him and his trusty team more than deserved success. Keith kindly wrote this report documenting the highs and the lows of his experience...
"The adrenalin rush was immense, there I was twelve thousand miles from home being called into the second row of seeding at the start of the World Champs, I had to pinch myself"
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November 12 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Mojo Trail Diaries go to Wales
Ben Cathro, Fabien Barel and Rob Breakwell head over to Wales to ride Snowdon, visit Mojo and slide around on some slick forest singletrack. The usual fantastic riding, epic scenery and comedy moments from MTBcut productions. If you haven't already, it's a must watch.
October 25 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Issue 13, lucky for some…
The new issue of Wideopen has been a long time coming with editors Jamie, James and Jim spending way too much time riding and not enough clicking and typing. This issue, as ever, has been well worth the wait...
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October 21 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Nutcrackers - Hamsterley
The season’s racing is pretty much over but we’re still finding events to send the truck along to. Last weekend saw the final round of the Nutcracker series, a fun XC race on an awesome trail. Vaughan Evans, the resident paint shop DH nut, went up to Hamsterley to do battle with the lycra…
October 19 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Dudes are Getting Loose
Episode four saw Jesus make an appearance and preach the DH Gospel, and the flock up in Fort William have obviously taken notice. Joe Barnes and the gang ride 'Adam's trail', like something straight out of British Columbia, it'll make everyone want to ride. The obligatory minibike action is also thankfully included, enjoy, we did.
October 12 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Jo Cardwell - Queen of the Mountains…
Steve Deas won the main prize as overall King of the Mountains, but what of the Queen? Well, only one lady stepped up to the challenge, and despite mixed fortunes completed all three events with style. Read about Jo's experiences here, and for all the ladies out there, this is officially a roll call for the 2011 event season...
September 30 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Steve Deas - King of the Mountains…
Steve Deas entered three No Fuss races this year, all in the name of becoming the UK's best (unofficial) all-round mountain biker. Endurance events designed to test every area of a mountain biker's competence. After winning the series, Steve talks about the events and what went into each race. Take a read if you think you can challenge him next year, but for now the crown and Five frame are his...
September 30 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Hamsterley one2one
The Hamsterley one2one is a brand new event with an old school feel. Harking back to the glory days of the NEMBA races, this weekend combines DH and XC to challenge the all rounder. Pick your weapon of choice, you’re only allowed one bike…
September 21 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The pressure refuses to relent…
Three weeks on from our initial update on Five lead times, and the pressure refuses to relent. In the previous release we mentioned component availability, and although issues still exist, it's us holding up the show. We can't keep up with frame orders. Read on for the full explanation...
September 17 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Fort William SDA
The fifth round of the SDA took the final procession to the Nevis range. An important race for those looking for the overall on a course which always attracts big numbers. Check inside for more Ian Linton photographic excellence and results from the Orange contingent.
September 15 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
A Tour around the Ben
The inaugural Tour de Ben Nevis was an unknown for many, a foray into a world of big mountains where riders are expected to be relatively self sufficient. The safety blanket of an organised event allowed access to an absolute wilderness, where the challenge was as much to complete as compete. No Fuss brand it their ultimate MTB challenge, we would tend to agree…
September 08 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Old World Mountain Bike Championships - an alternative affair…
Eurobike, the time when the masses vacate to look at the shiniest of shiney in the spacious Zeppelin hangers of Friedrichschafen. Walking through the halls it’s easy to forget how bikes once were, the days when suspension didn’t exist and where it did, it either failed to work or flexed to the very edges of catastrophe. In an attempt to neutralise the illness of modernism, we sent two of the youngest members of the team to get a grip on their roots and take part in the Old World MTB Championships, you don’t understand how random… WARNING: WORD HEAVY
September 02 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Team Borderline Mountain High - a season in pictures…
At the start of the season Michael Marsden of Borderline Events got to work arranging a new team, six riders who Borderline supplied with subsidised bikes. With the help of Mountain High Cycles, the Orange mounted team were set for the season on their custom orange and white 224-evolution World Cup bikes. This news item is a thank you from Orange to everyone involved with the team, it was fantastic to see a new set of riders at the races aboard the rather bright team bikes, and with riders like Allan Findlay getting over to the Windham World Cup, the team went truly international.
As another team sponsor, Scott Cartwright of Eggraphy was on hand to document their domestic season in pictures. Here's a few shots of Liam Moynihan, Sam Madison, Lianne Bartleman and Allan Findlay.
August 31 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Dudes and the DH Gospel
The Dudes are back with their fourth instalment. Joe hangs with a gull, the DH saviour appears, pee with a view, and more rad shredding ensues. Featuring Joe Barnes as Joe Barnes, Hannah Barnes as Hannah Barnes, Liam Moynihan as Liam Moynihan, James Shirley as James Shirley and Pete Scullion as Jesus...
August 24 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The pressure is building - Five lead times…
The Five is a firm favorite amongst everyone at the factory, a versatile trail monster that’s capable of everything from an all day mission in the Peaks to an annual Alpine holiday. If any of us could have just one bike, the Five would probably be it. The 2011 model has continued to evolve and push the Five forward, but with the improvements has come even more demand. This little news item is to say thank you for all the support and all the orders, and to ask for your patience in supply. Being a UK company we are subject to different demands, and parts are often in short supply, so read on if you want to know what the wait is all about…
August 23 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
10 More in Moray (and the battle of the titans)
The Benromach Ten More in Moray is the last of the No Fuss Events ten hour races for 2010. Based in Fochabers the event uses another fantastic course with fast woodland sections and open ground for those all important sprint passes. Like all the No Fuss events people are here to have fun and personal challenges abound, but the showdown was set to be something special, battle of the downhillers. 'Team Factory Pro Orange Big Deal World Team' were set to take on 'The Dudes of Hazzard'. It was time to don the lycra and go for the power-tuck...
August 16 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Round four of the SDAe
Round four of the SDA headed over to Ae forest last weekend, fresh from trips around Europe, most of the riders were on top form making for some fast racing and adventurous lines - we're talking to you Cathro...
Check inside for the picture heavy reportage.
August 09 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Tonight’s must watch, the gadget show…
Suzi Perry on an Orange downhill bike? You better believe it. Tune in tonight at 8pm to see what happens.
August 09 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
This month’s dude instalment…
Joe Barnes is still on the road and after his second trip to Europe, he's straight back in there with the home movies. The landship continues to roll.
August 06 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Dealings with dealers
This week has been a busy one for the Orange Sprinter, Halifax to Cwmcarn on Tuesday, then a trip North to Whinlatter on Thursday. The mission, to get our valued dealers out for a ride on some of our 2011 bikes. More ride time means better advice with shop staff knowing exactly what works best where. With our waterproofs on hand, we stood poised with pedal spanners, Michael was once again on flashing duties…he’s into that these days.
July 28 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Enduring the Downhill
The Hope Endurance Downhill is sublimely simple, in a six hour window riders have to cram in as many runs of the World’s most physical track as they can manage. A balance of speed, consistency and finesse make it a balancing act as riders vie for a title that truly makes them a hard man of downhill. As a firm favourite with the staff, we signed up without hesitation - the Orange race was on.
July 26 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Adam Hughes - the 13 year old ripper
Adam Hughes was brought to our attention by Mark Wilcox, as a stalwart Orange fan and experienced racer, he was keen to encourage Adam and get him involved in the scene. Racing a small Orange Five, Adam is showing his skills on the DH circuit, and schooling a lot of more experienced riders on the way. Adam’s sent through a few race reports, turning on the style…
July 22 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The trail diaries continue…
The Mojo Trail Diaries continue with Joe Barnes taking the guys around his back yard Highland trails. Epic climbs and killer singletrack as the clan continue to clock up their trail time. Joe continues to rule the roost on his Five.
July 19 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
National Champs - Ae it was muddy…
The big-guns rolled into Dumfries and Galloway this weekend for the National Champs at Ae forest. Lots of rain made for some exciting racing as riders battled to take the title...
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July 15 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
The Orange Factory Race Team - 10 @ Kirroughtree
Let’s make this clear, rather than a ‘factory race team’, we’re a race team from the factory – a small distinction you might say, but a distinction that needs making when you see our motley crew. The Orange team is headed by demo bike man James Milner, with Orange computer master John Chennells, and Singletrack’s art director Sim Mainey. Doing it alone is Orange odd jobber and seasoned head nodder Dave Flynn. For anyone thinking about joining in next year, this is a step by step account of how a professional race team tackle the No Fuss challenge, the moving pictures inside (video, rather than pictures which make you sad...) show the amount of preparation needed to be the best, just like this guy…
July 13 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Scottish Champs - Ben and Joe give the rest a go…
With MTBcut rider Joe Barnes busy getting 10th at the Mega, and team mate Ben Cathro nursing an injury from Leogang, the Scottish Champs were wide open. Dunkeld is a notorious track on the circuit, and while our top riders weren't racing, Cathro still gives a good show...take a look at the races from a different perspective, the noble world of the race marshal.
July 13 2010 - posted by John Chennells
Kirroughtree 10 Gallery
A wet and muddy No Fuss 10 at Kirroughtree played havoc with our camera gear, here are some of the pics that we managed to get.
July 09 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Joe Barnes and the gang keep on trucking…
If you're on our newspages there's a good chance you've already seen "Roadtrip in the landship", Joe Barnes' inaugral video special. "Dudes of hazard Ep. 2" continues the theme, featuring Joe, Hannah, Liam, Ben, crazy golf, pit-bike hilarity, plus some rather impressive mountain bike action.
July 07 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Transporter vans, video cameras, and the new Five
Stu Thomson, MTBcut videographer and stunt master extraordinaire, made the MBR 'first look' video for the release of the 2011 Five, here's what he had to say about proceedings...
July 07 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Singletrack Weekend Warriors
Singletrack held their annual weekend race event at Lancashire's number one trail centre. With three individual events riders had to hop, shred and crank as they competed for the overall. For the select few a special stage took place overnight with a beer fuelled night time pump track session, those trail builders have a lot to answer for. Orange's Michael Bonney went along with his camera to snap the trials and DH action on a sunny Saturday.
July 06 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
Danny MacAskill, Hans Rey and Steve Peat in the Highlands
The video inside says it all really, three riders spanning three generations with three very different styles. The guys from Reset films have put together a stunner with incredible scenery shots and fantastic trails. Take a look.
July 05 2010 - posted by Dave Flynn
What happened to Cathro? The update…
Ben Cathro is hurting at the moment, with a bad crash at Leogang his shoulder is smarting pretty badly. In his own words…
