Affiliate Disclosure

Affiliate Disclosure

Last updated: January 2025

Transparency Statement

At Cycling Spotlight, we believe in complete transparency with our readers. This disclosure explains our affiliate relationships and how they may affect our content.

Affiliate Program Participation

Cycling Spotlight participates in several affiliate marketing programs, including:

  • Amazon Associates Program: We earn from qualifying purchases made through Amazon links
  • Cycling Retailer Programs: Partnerships with specialized bike shops and online retailers
  • Manufacturer Programs: Direct partnerships with cycling equipment manufacturers
  • General Affiliate Networks: Various networks that connect us with cycling-related businesses

How Affiliate Links Work

When you click on certain links in our articles and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. This process:

  • Costs You Nothing Extra: You pay the same price whether you use our link or not
  • Supports Our Content: Commissions help us continue creating honest, detailed reviews
  • Is Clearly Marked: We identify affiliate links where possible
  • Never Influences Reviews: We maintain editorial independence in all recommendations

Our Review Process

Our commitment to honest reviews means:

  • We Test Everything: Products are personally tested by our team when possible
  • Research-Based Content: When testing isn’t possible, we conduct thorough research
  • Honest Opinions: We share both positives and negatives about products
  • No Guaranteed Reviews: Affiliate relationships do not guarantee positive reviews
  • Reader-First Approach: Your needs and interests guide our recommendations

Editorial Independence

We maintain strict editorial independence:

  • Affiliate partners cannot influence our review content
  • We decline partnerships that require specific review outcomes
  • Our testing methodology remains consistent regardless of affiliate status
  • We recommend products based solely on merit and reader value

Product Samples and Gifts

Occasionally, we receive free products for review purposes. When this occurs:

  • We clearly disclose when products were provided for free
  • Free products do not influence our review scoring or recommendations
  • We return or donate products when appropriate
  • The same testing standards apply regardless of how we obtained the product

Sponsored Content

Any sponsored content or paid partnerships will be:

  • Clearly labeled as “Sponsored,” “Advertisement,” or “Paid Partnership”
  • Maintained to the same quality standards as our regular content
  • Relevant and valuable to our cycling community
  • Compliant with FTC guidelines and advertising regulations

Your Trust Matters

We take our responsibility to you seriously. Our affiliate relationships allow us to:

  • Continue providing free, detailed content
  • Invest in better testing equipment
  • Expand our coverage of cycling products
  • Maintain website operations and improvements

Questions or Concerns

If you have questions about our affiliate relationships or want to report a concern about our content, please contact us. We value your feedback and are committed to maintaining your trust.

FTC Compliance

This disclosure complies with the Federal Trade Commission’s guidelines regarding affiliate marketing and sponsored content. We are committed to honest, transparent communication with our readers.

Thank you for supporting Cycling Spotlight. Your trust enables us to continue providing honest, comprehensive cycling gear reviews and advice.