Life would be lonely without a few friends! We’re pretty tough on our kit here at BikeVillage and over the years we’ve worked out what works and what doesn’t.
These are the brands we trust to help us do what we love doing best – showing you the most incredible mountain biking in the world.
Whyte Bikes:
Why? Awesome geometry, UK designed (lifetime bearing warranty, crud catcher mounts etc) and stupidly fun to ride, great value bikes.

Bikevillage and the awesome Whyte T-130
What? The T-130 is the most enjoyable all-round bike we’ve ever ridden, whilst the G-160 is a trail swallowing beast. Add in the best handling hardtails on the market and Whyte have all the bases covered.
How will it help you? We have some T-130 and G-160 models available to rent, either for the week or just for the day to test. Give us a shout for details on bike hire, or visit Whyte here for more details on their bikes.
Julbo Eyewear:
Why? The toughest lenses on the market by an order of magnitude with awesome lens tints for amazing optical clarity – a total game changer! Made of the same material as military helicopter windscreens, it takes 24hrs rather than 2 seconds to make a lens but the price is still very reasonable and you’ll get years more clear vision from your sunnies. Win!
What? We love the Zebra-lite variable lens, which is dark enough for sunny days but light enough for all but the densest, darkest forestry commission plantations in mid-winter, where a totally clear lens is best. See the full Julbo range here.
How will it help you? How many times are we told to look up and scan ahead? Well if you can see what’s up ahead then choosing a line becomes a whole load easier! The are two shops near Bikevillage stocking Julbo glasses so it’s easy to grab a pair during your trip. We have a few pairs at BV for you to try during rides too.
Polaris clothing and bike boxes:
Why? Bike boxes cost a fortune and clutter your house – Polaris rent out excellent rigid bike cases. They also make great clothing.
How will it help you? You can rent a Polaris Bike Pod, delivered to you and collected after your trip, on their webstore here.
Why? Sam was given a tester bottle at a bike race three years ago and has sworn by it ever since.
What? It’s a water-based wax lube that actually seems to work. The best bit is that it doesn’t attract dirt so your drivetrain stays pretty clean and therefore lasts lots longer.
How will it help you? You’ll find a tester bottle of Squirt waiting for you when you get to Bikevillage. If you like it, you can buy 500ml bottles from the guys at xcracer which tend to last Sam about a year – so it’s even good value!
Sports cover Direct travel insurance:
Why? They’re a small, friendly company who have been highly recommended by many guests over the years
What? Sports specific travel insurance. Choose ‘mountain biking – cross country’.
How will it help you? You can book your insurance for peace of mind for your trip, right here right now – just click on the link below:
Mountain Bike Nomad in Slovenia:
Why? Awesome riding and guiding in an incredible location in Slovenia – this is where Sam goes on holiday when he isn’t ‘working’ at Bikevillage!
What? Guided trips in Slovenia
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