Among
the product developments linked to the centre is Scottoiler’s
automatic chain lubrication system Cycle S1, which attaches to a bike
and takes over the entire chain maintenance process, delivering the
perfect quantity of fresh lubricant on to the chain exactly when
required. Researchers who put the system through its paces found
cyclists averaged a five per cent increase in power output.
Another development carried out in conjunction with the Mountain
Bike Centre was SussMyBike’s monitoring device which gathers the data
you need to accurately adjust your suspension for improved performance
via a smartphone app.
Fergus Ewing MSP, Minister for Business, Energy and Tourism, said:
“Scotland is blessed with some of the best mountain biking facilities
in the world and the Scottish Government is committed to maintaining
this international reputation. Mountain biking is not only an excellent
way to stay fit and healthy but it is an exciting growth industry, as
these new figures show.
“One of the jewels in Scotland’s mountain biking crown, Glentress
attracts hundreds of thousands of mountain bikers to the Tweed Valley
every year and I am pleased to be here today to see how the Mountain
Bike Centre, industry and academia are collaborating to create new
products and experiences which will allow this exciting sport to grow
even further.”
Stuart Fancey, Interim Director of Research & Innovation at the
Scottish Funding Council, said: “Getting the experts in Scotland’s
universities working together with bright new businesses is something
SFC actively encourages. It’s great to see how this initiative has
already helped businesses to develop new innovations in every aspect of
mountain biking – from where you change and what you wear, to
improving your ride, new bikes, repairs and security.
“I am delighted that this collaborative enterprise is flourishing.
It’s a great example of the positive impact that our world-leading
universities have on our economy and communities.”
In 2013, a study by University of Highlands & Islands estimated
that visiting mountain bikers spent £49 million in the country, with
indirect spending amounting to £130 million.
For further information contact Danny Cowe, Business Development Executive, on 07796 311 505 or Jack Mathieson, Media & Communications Officer at Edinburgh Napier University, on 0131 455 6251.
Notes to editors
The Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland is a joint initiative headed by Edinburgh Napier University and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, with project partner Scottish Enterprise. The project is funded by the Scottish Funding Council and Edinburgh Napier University.
From market research to product development; knowledge transfer, testing and product launches, it helps Scottish businesses capitalise in one of the country’s fastest growing sports and to bring Scottish mountain biking products and services to an international audience.