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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 �鶹���� and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, with project partner Scottish Enterprise. The project is funded by the Scottish Funding Council and �鶹����.

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.