Tested on Trails. Global in Impact.
Bike Innovation Scotland is a world-leading partnership between Edinburgh Napier University and South of Scotland Enterprise, building on more than 12 years of research, innovation, and industry engagement through the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland.
From July 2027, Bike Innovation Scotland will operate from the newly redeveloped Caerlee Mill Bike Campus in Innerleithen, bringing together cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, and industry expertise to support innovation across human performance, product development and trail systems.
Powered by Edinburgh Napier University’s academic leadership, South of Scotland Enterprise’s business support, and Bright Red Triangle’s entrepreneurial expertise, we connect businesses, researchers and riders to deliver real-world impact — leading globally from the South of Scotland.
Powered By
Where?
Innerleithen, Scottish Borders
Our home at New Caerlee Mill, opening July 2027, sits at the heart of the Tweed Valley - the UK’s number one riding destination and a globally recognised hub for mountain biking.
With over 400,000 rides annually across a diverse trail network spanning XC, downhill, gravel and enduro, Innerleithen provides a unique real-world testing environment.
The area has hosted world-class events including the UCI Cycling World Championships and remains a key stop on national and international race calendars. In 2027, Innerleithen will also host part of the Tour de France Grand Départ, showcasing its iconic road cycling routes.
Why Bike Innovation Scotland?
We combine academic excellence with industry application to deliver cycling innovation that creates real-world impact.
Our unique approach brings together research, testing and industry collaboration to accelerate the development of new products, technologies and services.
Our Expertise
- Integrated lab-to-trail testing capability
- World-class human performance and product testing facilities
- Multidisciplinary academic and industry collaboration
- Advanced data integration across rider, product and environment
- Evidence-based insight with real-world commercial relevance
How We Can Support You?
Every project is different. Our support is flexible, collaborative and tailored to your objectives.
Services and Support:
- Product testing and validation
- Contract research and consultancy
- Collaborative R&D projects
- Access to specialist facilities and equipment
- Long-term strategic partnerships
- PhDs opportunities and funded research
Whether you're a start-up, established business, public-sector organisation or researcher, we can help turn ideas into evidence-based solutions.
Our Journey
Today:
Trail Lab activity is already underway, with a proof of concept live at The Golfie, delivering real-world, on-trail testing and integrated human performance data collection.
Edinburgh Napier University’s research and innovation services are available now, supporting businesses in product development, performance analysis, and applied research.
July 2027:
The Caerlee Mill Bike Campus will open, bringing together an expanded Human Performance & Innovation Lab, collaborative workspaces and specialist research facilities.
This will create a fully integrated lab-to-trail innovation environment, providing businesses, researchers and riders with a unique platform for testing, development and discovery.
Who?
Leadership & Core Team
Bike Innovation Scotland; Edinburgh Napier University
Professor Tom Campbell – Director
Leading strategic direction and industry collaboration. Expertise in cycling innovation, knowledge exchange and applied research, shaping globally relevant projects from the South of Scotland.
Bike Innovation Scotland; Edinburgh Napier University
Associate Professor Lesley Ingram-Sills
Expert in human performance, sport science and wellbeing, leading research that connects rider health, performance and experience with real-world cycling environments.
Bike Innovation Scotland
Alex Watkins – Applied Technical Lead
MTB consultant engineer specialising in product development, testing and applied engineering. Bridges industry and research to deliver practical, trail-tested solutions.
Bike Innovation Scotland; South of Scotland Enterprise
Ed Shoote – Programme Lead
Leads programme delivery and industry engagement, supporting businesses to access innovation funding, partnerships and growth opportunities within the cycling sector.
Edinburgh Napier University; Bike Innovation Scotland
Associate Professor Hollie Fountain
Edinburgh Napier University; Bike Innovation Scotland
Norman Harris
Funding Partners
Innovation Network
