We have exciting news for cycling enthusiasts—our 2025 Girona bike rental fleet is confirmed, and now is the perfect time to reserve your rental bike to ensure you don’t miss out!
Every year, we enhance our bike hire fleet by keeping what works, replacing what doesn’t, and introducing the latest models so that every ride feels like a brand-new bike experience.
What’s New in Our 2025 Girona Bike Rental Fleet?
Colnago is Back
For 2025, we are thrilled to bring back Colnago rental bikes—and this time, we have 30 of them! Our fleet includes three top-tier models:
Colnago C68 – A high-performance endurance road bike, featuring a lightweight frame, sloping geometry, and innovative construction that absorbs road vibrations for a smooth ride.
Colnago V4Rs – This is Tadej Pogačar’s race bike of choice. If it can win at the highest level, you know it’s one of the best road bikes in the world.
Colnago G4X – A brand-new gravel bike and an upgrade from the successful G3X, designed to tackle the ever-growing gravel cycling scene in Girona.
New Brand in the Fleet – Mondraker
We are excited to introduce Mondraker, a premium mountain bike brand from Spain, now expanding into gravel bikes. The Mondraker Arid is a fresh take on gravel cycling, and we invite you to try it and tell us what you think!
Wilier E-Bikes Are Here to Stay
Wilier e-bikes were a standout in 2024, offering riders a perfect blend of power and performance. We continue to offer:
Wilier Garda Hybrid – A smooth-riding endurance e-bike.
Wilier Filante Hybrid – A high-end performance e-road bike.
Wilier Adlar Hybrid – A top-tier gravel e-bike, now with optional battery extenders for all-day riding.
Introducing the Wilier Granturismo SL
Looking for a top-tier endurance road bike? The Wilier Granturismo SL is a brand-new 2025 model that balances lightweight performance with all-day comfort. Choose between standard or carbon wheels to match your budget and riding style.
Upgraded Basso Palta II
The Basso Palta II has been a favorite gravel bike in our fleet since day one, and for 2025, we’ve given it a major upgrade:
Shimano GRX Di2 groupset for seamless shifting.
Carbon wheelset for improved speed and control.
Integrated carbon handlebar for a sleek and responsive ride.
Continuing the Cannondale Supersix EVO
A true all-rounder, the Cannondale Supersix EVO is a World Tour-level road bike that’s loved by riders of all levels. Many cyclists tell us they set new personal bests on this bike!
For 2025, we continue to offer:
Supersix EVO 3 – Equipped with Shimano 105 Di2, making it a more affordable high-performance option.
Supersix EVO 2 – Features Shimano Ultegra Di2 and carbon wheels for an upgraded experience.
Introducing the Wilier Verticale
One of the most anticipated new releases, the Wilier Verticale is a super lightweight climbing bike at a time when most brands focus on aero bikes. If you want to test out one of the lightest road bikes available, now’s your chance at Eat Sleep Cycle Girona.
Book Your 2025 Girona Rental Bike Today
Our 2025 rental bike fleet is designed to offer the best road bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes in Girona. Whether you’re looking for a performance road bike, an adventure-ready gravel bike, or a high-end endurance bike, we have the perfect ride for you.
Reserve your bike nowto ensure you get your top choice for your Girona cycling adventure!
REI had been a trusted name in outdoor experiences since the business began offering cycling tours, offering guided cycling tours that catered to a variety of skill levels and interests – their specialism was with shorter trips, particularly their 4-day tours.
With REI’s “Grand Départ” from the adventure cycling scene, the question arises: who will fill the gap?
Top Adventure Cycling Tour Operators
We’re pleased to say that the market is vibrant, with several companies providing exceptional experiences. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
1. Eat Sleep Cycle
Eat Sleep Cycle are a leading European cycling tours outfit with two locations in Spain – Girona and Malaga. Eat Sleep Cycle offer a range of itineraries for road, leisure, gravel & adventure cyclists. Their tours offer complete flexibility and a personalised experience, with small group tours, self-guided tours and private tours all delivered to a high quality with the goal of showcasing the best of the local terrain and culture.
Pros:
Spanish business with two physical locations in Girona and Málaga, so local knowledge of the European continent.
Small groups on scheduled tours ensure high staff to guest ratio.
Minimal extra costs for private / custom tours.
Excellent price point for the quality of the tours.
Year round calendar ensures not missing out on a cycling tour, even at Christmas and New Year.
If you like cycling the tours are focused on the riding and riding as much as you want.
Flexible offering for cyclists including fully supported tours, self-guided and even bike hire only so something for every budget.
Cons:
Currently tours only include cycling.
Relatively young business (7 years old) found in 2016 compared to some of the other top cycling tour operators.
Locations are being added however the other tour operators have more choice.
Eat Sleep Cycle merch is also available to buy online and in each cycling hub!
2. Backroads
Known for its high-quality cycling tours, Backroads offers a range of itineraries that cater to both road and mountain bikers. Their trips are well-organised, with experienced guides and support vehicles, ensuring a seamless experience.
Pros:
Over 40 years of experience makes for flawless experiences.
Over 50 countries to choose from.
Perfect for a family vacation mixing in walking, hiking and other activities like boating.
Cons:
American business means local European knowledge is recruited not ingrained into the core team.
The tours are great quality but come at a higher price point.
If you are a keen cyclist you may want to ride more than the itinerary.
As a subsidiary of Trek Bicycles, Trek Travel specialises in cycling vacations that combine stunning routes with top-notch accommodations. Their tours often include bike rentals and expert guides, making them a great choice for those looking to explore new terrains.
VBT offers a unique blend of cycling and walking tours, allowing participants to experience destinations at a leisurely pace. Their small group sizes and local guides enhance the experience, providing insights into the culture and history of each area.
5. Adventure Cycling Association
For those who prefer self-guided adventures, the Adventure Cycling Association offers a wealth of resources, including maps and route suggestions. This is perfect for cyclists looking to create their own itineraries while exploring new regions.
Even though REI Adventures has shut down, you can have no fear. There are plenty of great options out there for your next cycling experience! Whether you prefer self-guided tours on roads, gravel or high in the mountains, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore the great outdoors through cycling. Happy riding!
Thank you so much to all those who joined our 2nd Anniversary in Málaga in December 2024. If you did not join please enjoy this short video and hopefully this goes some way to express our grattitude to the community both local and abroad, for the Eat Sleep Cycle Málaga Hub over the last 2 years.
Thank you so much to all those who joined our 8th Anniversary in Girona in November 2024. If you did not join please enjoy this short video and hopefully this goes some way to express our grattitude to the community both local and abroad, for Eat Sleep Cycle over the last 8 years.
Grab yourself a bargain bike from our 2024 rental fleet. More bikes are becoming available everyday and posted here. If you can not find what you are looking for get in touch at girona@eatsleepcycle.com.
We replace our bike rental fleet every year to keep our rental bikes brand new and with that “new bike” feel for our guests. That means that the bikes we sell have only seen one season of use. We normally receive the bikes in March and sell them in November, that means these bikes are only 8 months old!
All bikes come with the original manufacturers warranty (since you will be the first owner) and benefit from a full mechanical revision including replacing any worn parts (brake pads, tyres, chain, etc).
All bikes are covered by our special protective film which we remove before shipping the bike.
We deliver our ex-rental bikes worldwide. The bikes are heavily protected and shipped door-to-door with trusted courier UPS. Simply get in touch for a quote or for more information at girona@eatsleepcycle.com.
Ordering from outised the EU? You can purchase your bike tax-free?Are you interested in collecting your bike from our Girona or Málaga locations? We can make you a tax-free document so you can claim the tax back in the airport before travelling home.
With the Tour Down Under getting underway on 16th January, and February and March packed with races in Spain, France, Italy and Belgium, there’ll be plenty of content, videos and memes to get our cycling juices flowing as we look ahead to the coming season.
At Eat Sleep Cycle, we’re all about the experience and adventure of cycling, about creating memories and community wherever you cycle. Our top 2024 cycling trips are designed to give you a taste not only of the landscapes, roads and tracks we plot our routes on, but also of the people, cultures and food you’ll encounter along the way.
Our scheduled tours are led by local guides who have profound knowledge of the area, including the best kept secret spots, cafés, restaurants, ice cream parlours and fun cycling facts. These are the people you want to ride with. They not only enhance your days in the saddle in terms of company and guidance, they are also on hand for mechanical support to keep you safe and make sure every stroke of the pedal is as smooth as possible.
Let’s dive into our top 2024 cycling trips.
The best places for cycling trips
Cycling trips can be deeply personal. Depending on our likes and dislikes, ability level, available time or preferred discipline, every cyclist has an ideal route in mind for their perfect cycling adventure.
The world offers a tapestry of landscapes to cater to our preferences. For riders drawn to the challenges that come with ascending (and descending!) mountain roads, the allure of the majestic French Alps or the winding roads of the Spanish Pyrenees may prove irresistible. Then again, riders after a calm sea breeze and views of the coastline will find more joy in pedalling along the coastal roads of Andalucía, or exploring the Algarve on two wheels, combined with a spot of golf.
The best places for cycling trips are as varied as we are as riders, and each destination presents its own thrills and scenic wonders. Another variable to think about is the season. Do you perform best in the vibrant hues of autumn? Do you prefer the crisp air of a morning winter ride? Or are summer rides that stretch until late into the evening your calling? Your list will be unique to you, but we guarantee we’ve got a cycling trip that checks all the boxes.
The best cycling in Europe
A haven of cycling culture, Europe offers almost every kind of landscape, terrain and conditions imaginable. The best cycling holidays in Europe, designed, tried and tested by the Eat Sleep Cycle team, span nine countries: the UK & Ireland, Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Germany, Austria and Slovenia. Here are some of our top picks of Eat Sleep Cycle’s 2024 cycling holidays in Europe:
Cycling in Italy
The Trans Dolomites Challenge: One for a challenge? This exceptional road cycling tour through the stunning Dolomites begins in the picturesque village of Ravascletto. Over eight days, you’ll pedal your way towards the majestic Dolomite mountains on point-to-point rides with slightly longer breaks in Colfosco and Bormio. Discover charming Italian villages and culture, and savour local dishes each evening before enjoying some well-deserved R&R at top-notch accommodation.
The ESC Tour of Tuscany: This immersive road cycling trip through the enchanting Tuscan region of Chianti will take you through quaint villages, vineyards, and UNESCO-listed landscapes. During the trip, you’ll stay in luxurious hotels, including Realis Il Vignale in Radda in Chianti, Villa Curina in Castelnuovo Berardenga, and Osteria dell Orcia in Bagno Vignoni, and sample authentic Italian cuisine and wines, soaking up the rich history of each location. Your guide team will provide lunches featuring fresh, seasonal produce to fuel this bucket-list adventure.
Cycling in Spain
Beyond Girona: This intermediate level 2024 cycling trip offers an in-depth exploration of some of Catalonia’s best roads, mountain passess, historic villages and culture. It starts strong in the Spanish Pyrenees mountains, a common training ground for many professional teams. Over the course of the seven-day tour, discover this region’s charm and beauty through the Alt Empordà wine region, the scenic Costa Brava coastline (once home to Salvador Dalí), and some of Spain’s best preserved Mediaeval towns. The trip draws to a close in our home town of Girona, Catalonia’s cycling mecca, where you’ll enjoy lunch at our Eat Sleep Cycle café in the centre of town. This tour is guided by our ESC team, who will provide you with mechanical support, ride nutrition, water and generally great vibes throughout each ride.
Have a look at these other rides in and around Girona for more inspiration:
Road / Scheduled / Advanced level / Average 92 km per day
The Classic Climbs of Málaga: Málaga is fast becoming one of southern Spain’s most popular destinations among cyclists. It’s also the home of our ESC Málaga Hub, and our expert team of mechanics and specialists. Málaga’s warm climate makes it the ideal location for year-round cycling. Temperatures in December to March don’t get much lower than 12º C during the day, and with over 300 days of sun per year, daily rides are a guarantee. This tour begins with a warm-up ride to el Puerto del León, just outside the city, followed by a wine-tasting tour around the city centre. During the rest of the trip, you’ll discover el Caminito del Rey, the road to El Chorro, the natural wonders of El Torcal de Antequera and some of Andalucía’s charming white hilltop villages. These vibrant climbs are matched by the Málaga’s colourful city centre, bars, restaurants and beachside chiringuitos, where you can sample the local delicacy, espetos (sardines cooked over a fire). For your safety and comfort, we recommend avoiding the hot summer months of July and August.
Have a look at these other rides in and around Andalucía for more inspiration:
Road / Self-guided / Intermediate level / Average 66 km per day
The ESC Tour of Mallorca: Touring any of the Spanish islands on two wheels makes for a bucket-list experience, but Mallorca is a particularly special place to ride. This six-night flagship 2024 cycling trip around the Balearic island of Mallorca begins in the capital, Pollença, in the North East, and continues on to explore the island’s picturesque landscapes. What Mallorca lacks in size (spanning just 3,640 km²), it makes up for in colossal climbs worthy of the world’s best cyclists (Sa Calobra, Cap Formentor, Soller), panoramic views from the Tramuntana mountains, and stunning coastal scenery. No Eat Sleep Cycle cycling trip would be complete without an authentic introduction to the local culture, people and food. Led by local guides, you’ll also have the chance to discover the island’s wine region, stay in rural hotels and guesthouses and visit local monuments to soak up Mallorca’s past and present. This is an advanced level tour, covering an average of 90 km each day.
The Eat Sleep Cycle Tour of Gran Canaria & Tenerife offers an equally immersive and unforgettable experience cycling through and over two of the most dramatic, volcanic Canary Islands.
Cycling in Germany, Austria & Italy
The Trans Alps Euro Velo: Check three countries off your list in one go! This self-guided gravel cycling trip has been carefully curated by our Eat Sleep Cycle team to take you on a tour around the cycle paths, trails and quiet back roads of Germany, Austria and Italy. Starting in exciting Munich, you’ll cycle straight into Austria on day 2 and be greeted by the Alps, before heading into Italy on day 3 and continuing to explore charming Italian villages such as Klausen, Trento and Rovereto. This is the ideal introduction to gravel riding and a great option for families with older children who wish to set their own pace.
Cycling in France
The Eat Sleep Cycle Tour of Provence: If you thought you knew Provence, think again. This carefully curated cycling trip has been designed and plotted to blend some of the region’s most renowned highlights with hidden gems. Starting in the Préalpes d’Azur and the stunning Gorges du Verdon, this seven-day tour unfolds through Sisteron-Beuch, Gorges de la Meouge, and Gorges de la Nesque, leading to the charming village of Mazan. The week culminates with the iconic Mont Ventoux, the scene of one of the most gruelling climbs in the Tour de France, which has ascended the mountain eighteen times since 1951. Provence’s charm is ever present as you spend each night in exquisite hotels, including the 4-star Bastide du Calalou, Le Patio de Sophie in Sisteron, and Chateau de Mazan, offering a restful night of R&R. This is an advanced level tour, covering an average of 94 km each day.
Other Eat Sleep Cycline 2024 cycling trips in France include:
Road / Scheduled / Advanced level / Average 78 km per day
Cycling in Slovenia
The ESC Tour of Slovenia: This seven-day road cycling trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled and the Julian Alps, is the ideal opportunity to explore the scenic wonders of Slovenia. This tour promises the best roads, challenging climbs, stunning nature and warm hospitality in this often overlooked cycling destination. You’ll cross the border into Austria on day 4 before making your way to the crystalline shores of Lake Bled, arguably one of Europe’s most beautiful Alpine lakes, and there’s even the chance to indulge in Michelin-star dining.
Slovenia Gravel: This carefully plotted gravel cycling trip takes you through the heart of Slovenia’s most beautiful landscapes, beginning in the capital Ljubljana, and culminating at the stunning Lake Bled. Some of the highlights include Velika Planina’s shepherds’ settlement, pedalling through the scenic Logar Valley and climbing into the alpine forests of Jezersko. Each night, the hotels offer rewarding views and great-quality food to ensure you are adequately refuelled for the following day. Culture, food, adventure, discovery and unforgettable experiences.
Cycling in the UK & Ireland
The ESC Tour of Yorkshire: Famous for its undulating beauty, lush green countryside and English charm, Yorkshire is one of the most entertaining regions in the UK for cycling. As you ride from coast to coast, you’ll cross the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, conquer Buttertubs Pass, tackle challenging routes to Dent, and marvel at the Ribblehead viaduct. Experience the Lake District, Kendal mint cake and the infamous Hardknott Pass before reaching your destination in the seaside town of Seascale. English delights such as craft beer, afternoon tea and the iconic fish & chips make this ride the ideal blend of culinary delights and great cycling experiences.
Cycling in Portugal
The ESC Algarve Golf and Gravel Tour: This four-day, self-guided cycling trip through the Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost and sunniest region, will take you from Portimão to Sagres, over mountains and along the coastline. Tailored for beginner and intermediate cyclists, the routes encompass a mix of gravel and road, which can be adapted to your skill level. But it’s not all about cycling on this trip… Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting at the Flesia Winery and relish a day at the Espiche Golf Resort. As this is a self-guided route, you will be provided with a digital Road Book, containing routes, detailed route descriptions, hotel information and our recommended places to stop along the way and in the evenings. For safety and comfort, we also recommend you are able to perform basic bike maintenance tasks.
The best cycling trips outside of Europe
In our quest to curate some of the best cycling trips in the world, we’ve travelled far and wide and met with some inspiring teams and individuals. As of 2024, Eat Sleep Cycle offers cycling tours in Uganda, Morocco, Chile and Argentina. We are incredibly proud of our on-the-ground teams in each country, ready to welcome and host your stay and cycling adventure.
Cycling in Uganda
Uganda Gravel Adventure: Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa”, home to a myriad of wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and a warm and friendly population. This nine-day gravel adventure is the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the country’s unique landscapes, wildlife and culture on two wheels. Pedal through tropical rainforests teeming with monkeys, observe the majesty of mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and embark on a cycling safari through the Queen Elizabeth National Park home to lions, buffaloes, and elephants. This 2024 cycling trip promises an unforgettable experience, with stays in local lodges, guesthouses, and safari camps in the heart of this vibrant country. This is an advanced level tour, covering an average of 60 km each day. We recommend travelling in the dry seasons, from June to August and from December to February.
Cycling in Morocco
The ESC Morocco Atlas Mountains Tour: As soon as you set foot in Marrakesh, the journey into this majestic land and unforgettable trip begins. This tour is the ideal choice for riders looking to completely immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Arab, Berber, and European cultures that define Morocco’s culture. Famous for their warm and generous hospitality, your guides and hosts will introduce you to local cuisine, traditions and endless pots of tea! Conquer the magnificent Tizi n’Tichka pass, and pedal across the captivating Agafay desert, spend a night camping in the High Atlas Mountains. This is an advanced level tour, covering an average of 65 km each day.
Cycling in Patagonia
Patagonia gravel. The great divide: Gravel cycling in Patagonia is an unparalleled experience. This scheduled gravel cycling trip takes you up and over the peaks of the Great Divide running through southern Chile and Argentina. The region offers endless tracks and trails that take you through its vast wilderness and untouched landscapes. Between the windswept plains and the jagged peaks of the Torres del Paine National Park, you can expect a mix of challenging climbs, awe-inspiring views, and a humbling sense of nature’s grandeur. Even spend a night sleeping under the stars. This is an advanced level tour, covering an average of 76 km each day.
Research shows that the enjoyment of a holiday starts as soon as you book. So get those good vibes going right away! Whether it’s in Spring, Summer, Autumn or even next Winter, get a cycling trip in the calendar as early as possible and have something to look forward to.
Plus, having something to look forward to will motivate you with the other New Year resolutions, like getting fitter and eating healthier to ensure your arrive on your cycling holiday feeling fit, heathly and ready for the ride of a lifetime!
In 2024 we are excited to be taking Eat Sleep Cycle international, with our first sold-out trips in Patagonia rolling out in March. We continue to grow our offering in Europe with highlights including – our first two trips running in Portugal, a new gravel ride from Florence to Rome, a fabulous new route in Piemonte, and our first departure in Yorkshire, England, rolling in July. VAMOS!!
Keep an eye on our Tour Finder for all our new releases and your chance to book!
Exploring Patagonia in December
Spend more time with friends
Bike rides are a perfect way to see your friends and also meet new friends. Do more social cafe rides in 2024. Join a local club or sign up to a local event, you won’t regret it!
At our cycling hubs in Girona and Málaga we organize regular events that you can get involved with on your cycling break.
Head over to our Girona Hub page & Málaga Hub page to see our planned rides & events for 2024!
Get your partner (or best friend!) riding more
One way to ride more may be to persuade your nearest and dearest to ride more so you can enjoy outings together. Find out what the barriers to that are and break them down. If it’s road safety try off road, if it’s the cold weather try better clothing. Ride at their pace if you can and focus on enjoyment rather than crunching numbers. We think you’ll enjoy the result!
Go for a spin with your best friend, who knows, they might love it as much as you do!
Get a structured training plan or cycling coach
Any type of cyclist with any objective can benefit from a cycling plan and cycling coach. It’s an extra motivation to ride when perhaps you would skip it and it will for sure have you fitter and smashing those climbs when the warmer months come.
If discomfort on the bike is holding you back from achieveing your goals take the time to work out the root of the problem, it could be that a simple bike fit, some sessions with a Physio or visit to a Chiropractor could leave you feeling stronger than ever! Read Dr Tom’s blog for more insights into how a Chiropractor can enhance your on the bike performance.
Treat yourself to a new bike in the January sale to motivate you to get out
You might have noticed there are some amazing deals to be had on new bikes as the market suffers after the post-covid boom. It’s a great time for customers to support their local bike shop! There are some great sales at the moment as bike shops clear stock. It’s the perfect time to grab a bargain with your Christmas money and perhaps try a new discipline (MTB, gravel or road cycling). There’s nothing like that new bike feeling to inspire rides.
New bike day? Nothing beats that new bike day feeling!
We hope these top tips have been useful for deciding which New Year’s Resolutions you would like to try to cycle more in 2024!
Black Friday is upon us and soon Christmas shopping. This is a plea to direct your cycling purchases to your local bike shop, trust me when I say they really need it.
It has been a terrible year for bicycle retail. It’s not just the online giants like Wiggle and Chain Reaction (speaking of the UK market) being affected, the equipment manufacturers like Shimano or not even the bike manufacturers, your local bike shop has also felt the squeeze more than any of them.
Really tight bike margins squeezed even further
Margins have always been tight in cycling retail. Nobody is selling with large multipliers like in fast fashion retail. A bike shop, before the crunch, was lucky to make a 30% margin on a bike before paying taxes.
With the oversupply in the market (manufacturers making too many bikes) and heavy discounting by online retailers (retailers ordering too many bikes then needing to clear stock), a bike shop these days is likely to make a 10-15% margin on a bike sale. That is only €100 per €1,000 of bike (before taxes). Many bikes need to be sold everyday to pay for rent, staff, utilities and more.
Here lies the second problem, demand for bikes is down an unbelievable amount since the COVID boom of 2021 and 2022. It’s actually incredible the difference experienced at a shop level in just 1-2 years.
Why is it acceptable to ask for more and more discounts in bike shops?
It would be a strange concept asking for a discount at all in the supermarket, a fashion store or generally most retail establishments. Yet in a bike shop it is accepted and regularly abused – why is that?
I´ve asked some customers and the general feedback was that perhaps it’s because the margins are high enough for discounts, which goes completely against the reality!
The problem has been exacerbated this year with heavy online discount prices being the starting point for bargaining by customers.
Bike shops can not hold stock anymore
If it was ok to hold bike stock the last few years due to high rotation, it is not at all ok now. Due to the low margins and slow rotation bike shops need to run a low stock and depend on distributors to carry extra size, colour and groupset variants.
Customers still want a bike quickly, even more so now that there is a lot available online, so it´s important to have a great relationship with suppliers. Many of the big brands are still expecting large bike implantations for 2024 to maintain a healthy margin.
It’s not all doom and gloom!
It is important to accept the current shortfalls in the new bike market, however Eat Sleep Cycle has seen an impressive growth in cycling kit and accessories in 2023 compared to 2022. We believe that the new cyclists that purchased bikes in 2021 and 2022 are out riding their bikes and want to style up and accessorize.
We will restructure this business stream in 2024 to reflect the recovery of bike sales over the next 2-3 years.
To counteract that, all those new cyclists have been looking for experiences and we have seen strong growth in both our tours and bike hire businesses. These business streams are our focus for growth in 2024.
Our strengthening brand has allowed us to expand our own Eat Sleep Cycle product line in 2023. We will continue to invest in our own product line in 2024.
The inevitable burst of the retail bubble with an upside
Eat Sleep Cycle benefited greatly from the cycling retail growth fueled by COVID. Our retail business grew exponentially, we took on new bike brands, gained local customers and developed an online shop. In 2023 all that ended quite dramatically with a sharp decrease in new bike demand. Overstocking by manufacturers has resulted in heavy discounting and reduced margin on new bike sales too.
On the plus side, retail sales of kit, merchandise and other accessories were up significantly in 2024, a really positive signal for our future retail business model. The opening of our dedicated Girona apparel store and Málaga hub are the ingredients for this success. Having physical points of sale (while large online retailers suffer) has been an advantage to add value for customers in 2023.
Overall, our retail tickets and items per ticket are up significantly in 2023 compared to 2022.
In 2024 we will focus more on high rotation items like kit and accessories and less on new bike sales. We will have stronger collaborations with less bike brands.
Bike hire domination
Now in our eighth year of delivering bike hire in Girona, this experience, knowledge and dedication to service shone through in 2023. With a dedicated bike hire center and brand new bike fleet (not just bikes, helmets and accessories too), 2023 was our best year yet. Girona continues to grow in popularity compared to destinations like Mallorca.
The addition of our Málaga Hub and offering bike hire in Andalucía has strengthened our Winter operation and greatly supported the growth of this business stream.
Tours well and truly back as our focus
Eat Sleep Cycle was founded as a cycling tours business, if COVID helped us launch a retail business (while travel was as good as banned), 2023 has been the year we are well and truly back to our origins. We have seen a full recovery from pre-covid tour numbers.
In 2023 we have invested in developing new trips and established a great team at our new Headquarters. We ran our first departures in Tuscany and have seen strong growth in tours in Andalucía. We have made some successful collaborations, for example with the Badlands ultra event.
In 2024 we will run our first trips in Portugal, Patagonia, Uganda and Sicily, it’s set to be a huge year!
Community was a key focus
In 2023 we’ve run hundreds of social rides, events and gatherings. Many of them in collaboration with our partner brands. As well as in Girona we’ve run weekly events in Malaga. We’ve been determined to not let the downturn in the cycling retail sector impact our support of the local community. Celebrating our 7th Anniversary in Girona & 1st Anniversary in Málaga, we saw a strong turnout from the community. This will continue to be a main priority in 2024.
Our own product, our own brand
Our in-house designer, Raúl, launched several new Eat Sleep Cycle kit collections in 2023, these collections have been really popular in our cycling hubs (with local and foreign customers alike) and we’d like to expand this activity to online sales in 2024. Because it’s our own product that nobody else sells there is no price war. We make the product locally with local materials and we make to order to avoid overstocking and waste.
Conclusion – A stabilising year
Following the exponential grown of the retail business during COVID, 2023 has been a stabilising year, with the shrinkage in that business being made up by the growth in our tours and bike hire businesses. Once again we have proven that our diversity makes us stronger.
The Eat Sleep Cycle brand and identity grows from strength to strength and now in our 8th year our experience and knowledge is coming through in the quality of delivery.
2024 will see significant tour business growth, restructure in the retail business and more focus on our own brand. Let’s get the wheels rolling!
Our biggest reward is seeing our guests having the best time on their cycling holidays, smashing records on new climbs and getting intimate with the landscapes we know and love.
It’s precisely for that reason that we update our bike rental fleet each year. Our hubs in Girona and Málaga will consider all your requirements to offer you the bike you need. Let’s dive into what you could be riding in 2024.
HIT THE ROAD ON PREMIUM MODELS FOR THE BEST CYCLING HOLIDAY MEMORIES
The beauty of renting is getting to try something new, something that will add a layer of luxury to your cycling holiday and provide the best riding experience. We’ve brought some real treats onto the table for the 2024 season, including models from the likes of Basso, Cannondale, Ridley and Wilier.
If speed and agility are what you’re looking for, the Wilier Filante SLR* (available with Shimano Ultegra di2) offers a top-of-the-range, lightweight, aerodynamic frame with an improved stiffness-to-weight ratio and integrated cabling on the handlebars. This bike is a real beauty that mirrors the design and technology used to craft the Wilier 0 SLR.
Another legendary name among the Eat Sleep Cycle fleet is Basso. The Basso Venta (available with Shimano 105) celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023, proving this model to be one of the most successful in the brand’s history. With a hand-crafted frame and internal cable routing, the Venta combines form and function to deliver an aesthetically-pleasing and performance-driven model.
If you want to try something exceptional for exploring the roads surrounding Girona and Málaga, one sure-fire option is the ultimate racing machine, the Cannondale SuperSix EVO (disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra di2 gear shifting). This model was born for the road and is the ideal bike for speedy spins on both flats and mountain climbs. Enjoy the smooth transitions of the Ultegra di2 electronic shifting and the lightweight, streamlined carbon frame. Road riding just got a whole lot more fun with this one!
Basso Venta
Cannondale SuperSix EVO
Wilier Filante SLR
WE’VE GOT YOUR 2024 GRAVEL ADVENTURES COVERED IN GIRONA AND MÁLAGA
Gravel riding, the not-so-new kid on the block, is an immensely popular option for riders of all disciplines, given its hybrid nature. Eat Sleep Cycle has brought in some superb gravel models from Basso, Cannondale, Ridley, Wilier and Giant to help you make the most of your cycling adventures when in town. Here are some of our highlights.
If you plan to head off-piste, the Cannondale Topstone1 offers reliable traction, beautiful handling and superior comfort. This sleek model was built for accompanying you along the routes less travelled and out into the elements. Its lightweight, durable SmartForm C2 Alloy Frame with a full carbon fork is ideal for comfortably switching between tarmac and uneven terrain as you explore to your heart’s content.
Another option is the Basso Palta GRX. Adventure meets performance in this model, which offers a versatile geometry for precise handling and an efficient riding position. It has been designed to enhance the gravel experience in the “Palta” way, with a design that favours speed as well as comfort.
Next up it’s Wilier’s Adler SLR. This stunning design pairs gravel capabilities with bikepacking potential. It’s made for adventurers and two-wheeled travellers with a carbon frame that can take an additional load of 35 kg, ideal for off-piste weekend escapes. Its carefully studied geometry is based on that of a mountain bike and permits confident handling on tarmac and trails. This bike is designed to accompany you on gravel adventures and offers a truly game-changing experience.
Basso Palta GRX
Cannondale Topstone 1
Wilier’s Adler SLR
RIP UP THE MOUNTAINS ON THESE MTB MACHINES
Our Cycling Hubs in Girona and Málaga are surrounded by incredible mountainscapes that merit some serious exploration. With decades of experience in bike manufacturing, we wholeheartedly trust Cannondale to deliver the ultimate trail adventure when you rent a bike through Eat Sleep Cycle. Let’s dive in…
The Cannondale Scalpel SE is a lightening-fast XC model designed to provide superior suspension, control, and grip wherever your ride takes you. This bike offers next-level performance across all types of terrain thanks to its lightweight, durable and flexible design and the RockShox SID Select+ fork.
Next up we have the Cannondale Trail. This rugged and hardy design is best suited for low-impact trails and gravel routes. In our opinion, the Trail is an excellent option for gravel or MTB riders who are starting to dip their toes into the world of trail riding. It offers superb handling thanks to its lightweight and modern frame, ensuring you ride with confidence and have a lot of fun while doing so.
Cannondale Scalpel SE
Cannondale Trail
ENJOY AN EXTRA BOOST WITH OUR PREMIUM SELECTION OF E-BIKES
Riders looking for a touch of extra support on the climbs can also choose from our selection of e-bikes. Ride further, faster and more fluidly on Cannondale’s Monterra Neo with dual-suspension and the latest drive systems from Bosch and Shimano, offering outstanding power and range.
The Revolt E+ from Giant is a great option for riders looking to explore Málaga’s mixed and gravel trails. This lightweight , sleek and versatile bike delivers long-distance riding power (potentially up to 160 km), which can be (de)activated simply by pressing the RideControl on/off button on the top tube.
Wilier Filante Hybrid Road E-Bike* is our top of the range road e-bike. Designed with a very specific goal: to help you go faster and minimize fatigue. The performance of the Filante Hybrid has been raised even further, creating a unique bicycle.
Alternatively, for those days pedalling calmly through the city and enjoying the sights, we have the Cannondale Adventure Neo 3.1 EQ, a perfect option for laid back riding. This bike is available at both our Girona and MálagaCycling Hubs.
Cannondale Monterra Neo
Revolt E+
Wilier Filante Hybrid Road E-Bike
WANT TO BOOK A BIKE OR FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR BIKE HIRE DESTINATIONS?
