War drives technology, as evidenced by the device I’m using to write this article on and the one you are using to read it by, as well as by the internet that has delivered these words to you. These technologies were of course first utilised by the military-industrial complex before being repackaged for use by the wider society.

It strikes me as peculiar how such a disarmingly simple machine can be the fulcrum for such complex issues, of compelling tales that stir the deepest emotions and of such resounding devotion, yet this is what the humble bicycle is.

New jerseys and new name, but the team is much the same as one of the best. Our man in Spain, Alastair Hamilton, joined the Etixx – Quick-Step media day in Calpe for an up close and personal look. Was it the same as last year? No, but lot's of fun chasing the stars of the Etixx - Quick-Step team around Spain.

Unlike other sports; bicycle road racing is open to the elements and events take place before a diverse backdrop featuring geographic highlights of many countries. Add to this ever-changing weather, different road surfaces, colourful jerseys and colourful personalities and the rolling circus atmosphere provides the photographer with limitless opportunity.

The life of a pro cyclist is not all plain sailing, unless you're on the top rung of the WorldTour ladder. Lee Rodgers gives us the lowdown on some of the pitfalls of signing a contract with just about any team, be it national, Continental or with the professionals. Always read the small print!

Looking back through the virtual library of 2014 adventures it's hard to choose which ones to relive, but when it comes to the Giro we have to go for one from Alessandro. Our man in Italy know's his country and where to find the best points of interest. Enjoy!

As it's the end of the year we take our usual look back at our favourite stories. When the PEZ literary Editor isn't reading books for reviews, he's adding to his collection of bikes. Here is the background on his new 'made-to-measure' Tommasini from earlier this year.

Our man in Spain, Alastair Hamilton, was lucky enough to receive an invitation to the presentation of the Katusha team and new clothing for 2015. He didn't just go for the free food and drink, but spent the day with the team for a ride (in the car) and some interviews. Here is his day with the Russians.

Photo Special: It’s not ‘Good-Bye Cannondale’ but more of a ‘See you next year in the US’ for the famous frame maker. After nearly 20 years of sponsoring and supplying bikes to Italian based Pro teams, Cannondale will become a US WorldTour team with Garmin in 2015. We take a look at 'Cannondale: The Italian Years.'