Former Swedish pro cyclist Magnus Backstedt and business partner Gareth Ellis have opened a state-of-the-art bike fit studio and testing centre in Newport’s Mill Parade.

Backstedt Bike Performance Ltd is the first to offer this level of bike fit outside London and Manchester.

The system is able to track cyclists in real time, displaying full body 3D data at high frequencies by using 3D motion capture cameras and the high-tech analytical 3DMA system from STT in Spain, built upon a powerful 3D motion capture engine. In less than five minutes the system can provide real time data on a rider’s motion.

Newport-based HardingEvans Solicitors assisted in locating the suitable premises for the shop and acted for the owners in negotiations with the landlord and the arrangement of the lease.

Magnus Backstedt, who won the 2004 Paris-Roubaix and a stage of the 1998 Tour de France, moved to Wales 13 years ago, and his business partner Gareth is father to Isabel Ellis, who is a junior rider for Wales.

Magnus said: “We are very excited about this new venture, which will complement our coaching business Backstedt Coaching and our South Wales-based youth and junior race team Backstedt Hotchillee.”

Gareth Ellis, co-owner of Backstedt Bike Performance Ltd, said: “We chose Newport as the location for the shop because of its excellent links to the M4 and M5 and its proximity to the Wales National Velodrome, home to Welsh cycling and a major hub in the cycling scene in Wales and the South West.”

Mike Jenkins, partner and head of commercial at Harding Evans Solicitors, said: “We have worked with Gareth on many occasions in the past and were delighted to provide the legal advice and support needed to help launch this unique new venture. Our knowledge and standing in the local business community enabled us to assist in identifying premises, as well as providing legal advice to both Gareth and Magnus. This really was a team effort with our client.

“With Magnus’ first-hand knowledge and experience of the cycling world and his and Gareth's drive to provide cyclists in South Wales with access to the most up-to-date technology and equipment, we’re sure the business will be a great success and we wish them all the best for the future.”

HardingEvans is one of South Wales’ most progressive law firms, offering a full range of legal services to businesses and individuals. It is a previous winner of Western Mail’s Welsh Law Firm of the year.