The Étape Caledonia, the only British cycling event of its kind that takes place on roads closed to motorised traffic, was sabotaged at the weekend when protesters sprinkled carpet tacks along much of the 81-mile course.
Many of the 3,500 cyclists who took part in the ride, which raised £200,000 for charity, suffered punctures forcing the event to be suspended for several hours.
The sabotage is said to have been carried out by locals who objected to the roads being closed for the day.
A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “The benefits of cycling events on closed roads outweigh the minor and temporary disruption for motorists.”
How best to deal with punctures?
Cycling requires little or no technical know-how; the bikes pretty much take care of themselves, but the exception is punctures. Some tyres are described as puncture-resistant, but this is no guarantee against a flat. Most regular cyclists carry a spare inner tube and the various pieces of equipment needed to carry out an impromptu roadside pit stop, but what if you do not have the skill or inclination to fix your own punctures?
The ETA offers a cycle rescue service that includes a ‘puncture protection’ option.
If you suffer a flat tyre, a van is sent out to pick you up and take you either to the nearest bicycle shop, railway station, hotel or your home if it is nearer.
Insurance cover for your bicycle
Bicycles are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else. Cycle insurance from the ETA is fully comprehensive and covers electic-assist bicycles.
At no extra cost, it includes new-for-old replacement, cover for accidental damage, third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, we will even come out and recover you and your bike.
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