Mini-Guide: What a summer! Wet Weather Wear required...
Remember that heatwave? That handful of hot days at the beginning of July are a distant memory now as the weather here in Ribble Country seems to have descended into showers interspersed with bouts of heavy rain. Clothing choice is a headache! There’s a saying in the part of Lancashire where I grew up, that "If you can see Pendle Hill it's about to rain, if you can't see it, then the rain's already started." In this kind of weather it’s wise to choose versatile items of cycle clothing that will keep parts of you dry and warm and yet not overheating. Here’s our mini-guide to ‘Wet Weather Summer Riding Clothing’ and if you’ve been caught out this week without the right kit you might want to read it!
Clothing: Waterproof Jacket
On one morning commute last week the early ‘heavy mizzle’ quickly became moderately heavy rain and I was glad to be wearing a ‘heavier weight’ waterproof jacket and other un-summer like clothing to keep it all out. It might be the English summer but a good waterproof jacket can serve you well all year round! Heavy rain means surface water and spray so a bright colour or at least some reflectivity is highly recommended. We’ve a big selection of waterproof jackets from leading brands including Castelli, Assos, Santini, Endura, Altura and BBB. See them here 
Waterproof Overshoes
Road spray can soak your shoes and feet within minutes so a good pair of waterproof overshoes are an essential investment. I’m currently using BBB’s excellent SpeedFlex overshoes which are the right kind of weight for summer (and spring and autumn). Shop now
Gloves
On longer rides or commutes in poor weather it might be wise to switch back to long fingered gloves. We’ve a huge range here.
Arm and Leg Warmers
This unpredictable showery summer weather has meant digging out the arm and leg warmers. The leg warmers provide some warmth whilst the arm warmers coupled with a short sleeve jersey provide the flexibility you need when the weather is so changeable. Shop now
Workshop: Chain Cleaner and Lubricant
It’s summer but when you bike gets wet it will love you more it you clean and lubricate it! Shop now Read our Bike Cleaner & Lubricant Guide here So remember, by selecting the right kit there’s no reason why rain should stop you enjoying your summer of riding!
Best Gravel Bikes 2026
What actually makes ‘the best’ gravel bike in 2026? A clear guide to choosing the best bike for how you actually ride.
What is a Gravel Bike?
Gravel bikes are changing how people ride. Sitting right in the middle of road and off-road, they're fast on tarmac and stable on loose ground. Comfortable over long distances and ready for whatever the ride throws at you.
Gravel Bikes - Which frame material is right for you?
More cyclists than ever are seizing the opportunity to take their rides off-piste in search of freedom and adventure. But to do so, you need the right tool for the job - a gravel bike. The Ribble gravel range consists of four frame materials. Each of these offers something a little different in terms of ride quality, longevity and performance characteristics. So how do you decide which frame material is right for you?
Tyre Choice and Pressures for UK Gravel
Tyres can make or break your gravel ride. This blog cuts through the guesswork on width, tread and pressure, showing you what actually works for UK conditions.
Getting the right set up is half the battle
Getting your gravel bike set up right is the difference between enjoying the ride and counting down the miles. This blog breaks down the key adjustments that actually matter, from saddle height to bar position and tyre pressure, without drowning you in jargon.
Why Gravel Riding Works In February
February gravel isn’t about hero rides. It’s about quiet trails, mixed surfaces and riding for the sake of it. This blog dives into why Ribble staff and the Outliers keep choosing gravel when winter drags on, from traffic-free routes to bikes built to handle proper UK conditions.
Post Ride Checks That Keep Your Gravel Bike Running
Winter wrecks bikes. This blog shows you how to fight back in five minutes flat. No tools, no faff. Just the simple checks that stop small issues turning into expensive problems. From wiping down grit to spotting tyre cuts and keeping your chain alive, it’s the bare minimum that makes a massive difference. Ride more. Fix less. Your future self will thank you.
Winter Gravel Clothing Guide
Winter gravel isn’t about suffering. It’s about turning up and staying comfortable. This guide shares no-nonsense kit advice from Ribble staff and the Outliers on what actually works in a UK February.
Best Road Bikes for Beginners: A Complete Guide to Getting Started
New to road cycling and drowning in jargon? This guide cuts through the noise. We break down what actually matters on your first road bike, from comfort to gearing, and show you which options suit real UK riding. No hard sell. No tech waffle. Just straight-talking advice to help you choose a bike you will actually enjoy riding.
When To Service Your Bike? A Practical Guide for Every Rider
Looking after your bike doesn’t start and end with a clean after riding. Regular servicing keeps it working at its best, no matter how often you ride. The tricky part is knowing when a service is needed. Too early feels unnecessary. Too late and the problems have already crept in. This guide breaks it down simply so you can ride more and worry less.
Staying Motivated: Winter Wisdom From The Ribble Family
When winter kills your motivation, even the pros feel it. The difference is they’ve built strategies that keep them riding when willpower runs out. Here’s how they stay consistent, break through the slump, and keep the pedals turning through the toughest months.
10 weeks down and far from decided: here’s why to join now
Ten weeks in and building momentum. Join the Ribble Winter Racing Series now - your best 10 results count. Race hard, miss weeks, progress.