A bus camera captured dramatic video shows Wisconsin State Representative Fred Clark flying through a red light and hitting cyclist Richard Rideout.
Via Daniel Canfield and others.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Twitter button with pre-shortened URLs
I was stuck inside all weekend recovering from H1N1, so I spent some time creating the Bike Shorts URL shortening service for my use, but I'd be delighted if you used it also. Once I have a critical mass of links in the database you'll see recent and top links listed over there too.
My main motivation for this is to have my own pre-shortened URLs for my blog posts. I've had the "Tweet Meme" button at the top of my posts for a while, but I always thought they were a little clunky. At the bottom of this post you'll now see a tiny little Twitter button listed alongside the other social media buttons. Go ahead and try it if you want.
You can add this button with pre-shortened URLs to your own blog. The Javascript code you need to add looks like this:
Replace post title with the code for your blogging platform for the title of your post, and http://example.com/your/blog/post/ with the code for your permalink page URL. For Blogger.com, for example, add this code to your Template:
In Wordpress, you can add this code to your theme:
...or could just use the WP Plugin that auto-tweets each post. Point to http://cycl.me/ in the settings and you should be ready to go.
Please let me know what you think of Bike Shorts and what kinds of features you'd like to see with it.
Huge props to Steve Vance for some technical pointers and the domain name suggestion.
My main motivation for this is to have my own pre-shortened URLs for my blog posts. I've had the "Tweet Meme" button at the top of my posts for a while, but I always thought they were a little clunky. At the bottom of this post you'll now see a tiny little Twitter button listed alongside the other social media buttons. Go ahead and try it if you want.
You can add this button with pre-shortened URLs to your own blog. The Javascript code you need to add looks like this:
<script type="text/javascript"
src="http://cycl.me/tweetme.php?f=js&text=post title&url=http://example.com/your/blog/post/">
</script>
Replace post title with the code for your blogging platform for the title of your post, and http://example.com/your/blog/post/ with the code for your permalink page URL. For Blogger.com, for example, add this code to your Template:
<script type="text/javascript"
src="http://cycl.me/tweetme.php?f=js&text=<$BlogItemTitle$>&url=<$BlogItemPermalinkUrl$>">
</script>
In Wordpress, you can add this code to your theme:
<script type="text/javascript"
src="http://cycl.me/tweetme.php?f=js&text=<$?php the_title() ;?>&url=<?php the_permalink() ;?>">
</script>
...or could just use the WP Plugin that auto-tweets each post. Point to http://cycl.me/ in the settings and you should be ready to go.
Please let me know what you think of Bike Shorts and what kinds of features you'd like to see with it.
Huge props to Steve Vance for some technical pointers and the domain name suggestion.
Messenger Mirror review
I've been using Bruce's "Messenger Mirror" for a couple of months now.
These compact and affordable mirrors have an unobtrusive, minimalist design that slide onto your eyeglass frame. They're not nearly as clunky as some other mirrors.
I'm a long time user of mirrors. The small field of view takes some getting used to compared to the larger mirrors out there, but Messenger Mirrors are indeed usable.
I recommend mirrors for those who like to be helpful during group rides by yelling "Car back!" every time a vehicle approaches. Kidding.
I like mirrors because they enable me to check back quickly for merges, passing, left turns, and the occasional quick escape. I still do a shoulder check, but the mirror let's me know when a possible gap opens up for my move.
The only real drawback: The thin wire stalk doesn't lend itself well to easy adjustment -- once you have the mirror where you like it, it's a very good idea to keep it there.
Otherwise, the mirror works as advertised. I don't find the small field of view a hindrance and it works adequately for me, and the price -- $4.99 + 88 cents postage -- can't be beat.
MessengerMirror.com.
These compact and affordable mirrors have an unobtrusive, minimalist design that slide onto your eyeglass frame. They're not nearly as clunky as some other mirrors.
I'm a long time user of mirrors. The small field of view takes some getting used to compared to the larger mirrors out there, but Messenger Mirrors are indeed usable.
I recommend mirrors for those who like to be helpful during group rides by yelling "Car back!" every time a vehicle approaches. Kidding.
I like mirrors because they enable me to check back quickly for merges, passing, left turns, and the occasional quick escape. I still do a shoulder check, but the mirror let's me know when a possible gap opens up for my move.
The only real drawback: The thin wire stalk doesn't lend itself well to easy adjustment -- once you have the mirror where you like it, it's a very good idea to keep it there.
Otherwise, the mirror works as advertised. I don't find the small field of view a hindrance and it works adequately for me, and the price -- $4.99 + 88 cents postage -- can't be beat.
MessengerMirror.com.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Marin County booby trapped trails
The conflict between hikers and mountain bikers on Marin County open space trails has escalated where booby traps are apparently being placed to clothesline mountain bikers. Video at KTVU - "Mountain Bikers, Hikers Vie For Space On Marin County Trails". Props to Paul W.
New Missouri law: Cyclists may run lights
A new law that took effect last Friday allows motorcyclists and bicyclists to run red lights after coming to a complete stop and waiting a reasonable amount of time. This law addresses the situation known to every motorcyclist and bicyclist -- many traffic light sensors don't detect the presence of motorcycles and bicycles.
Missouri DOT bureaucrats grumble about the supposed safety impact and some local police threaten to ticket riders anyway and "leave it up to the court to decide" if the cyclist waited a reasonable amount of time, but cyclists (motorized and pedal powered) around the state are happy that legislature has legalized what is common practice.
Cyclists must come to a complete stop at the red light. If, after a reasonable amount of time, the cyclist determines in his judgment that the signal is not going to change, he can proceed when it's safe. The law only applies to lights that are triggered by vehicle sensors -- if you're at a timed light, you still must wait for the timer to expire.
More from Missouri Bicycle Federation. H/T to Tulsa Cycling Examiner for the heads up. And it's a little amusing that in Champaign, Illinois, it's the cyclist who triggers a malfunctioning light for motorists.
Missouri DOT bureaucrats grumble about the supposed safety impact and some local police threaten to ticket riders anyway and "leave it up to the court to decide" if the cyclist waited a reasonable amount of time, but cyclists (motorized and pedal powered) around the state are happy that legislature has legalized what is common practice.
Cyclists must come to a complete stop at the red light. If, after a reasonable amount of time, the cyclist determines in his judgment that the signal is not going to change, he can proceed when it's safe. The law only applies to lights that are triggered by vehicle sensors -- if you're at a timed light, you still must wait for the timer to expire.
More from Missouri Bicycle Federation. H/T to Tulsa Cycling Examiner for the heads up. And it's a little amusing that in Champaign, Illinois, it's the cyclist who triggers a malfunctioning light for motorists.
Logan Marshall Green rides a bicycle
Logan Marshall Green pedals his bicycle as girlfriend Marisa Tomei hangs on.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Benicia Bridge bike access open
The Bike & Pedestrian lane on the Benicia-Martinez Bridge opened Saturday. Interstate Highway 680 crosses the Carquinez Strait over the Benicia-Martinez Bridge to connect Contra Costa and Solano counties.
"The opening of the pedestrian/bicycle path is an exciting milestone that signifies completion of the final improvements to both spans of the Benicia-Martinez Bridge," explained Bijan Sartipi, Director of Caltrans District 4 and an MTC/BATA Commissioner. "We are thrilled that we now have safe and efficient travel across the Carquinez Strait for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians."
This pedestrian & bicycle lane closes a gap in the San Francisco Bay and Ridge Trails, linking to the Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail. Bicyclists and pedestrians using this new path will be treated to stunning views of the Suisun Bay, as well as the Carquinez Bridge and the Mothball Fleet.
The 2.2 mile bidirectional pedestrian & bicycle lane was added as part of the $50 million seismic retrofit of this bridge.
Thank you to Curtis Corlew, who rode across the bridge with his wife on opening day.
"The opening of the pedestrian/bicycle path is an exciting milestone that signifies completion of the final improvements to both spans of the Benicia-Martinez Bridge," explained Bijan Sartipi, Director of Caltrans District 4 and an MTC/BATA Commissioner. "We are thrilled that we now have safe and efficient travel across the Carquinez Strait for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians."
This pedestrian & bicycle lane closes a gap in the San Francisco Bay and Ridge Trails, linking to the Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail. Bicyclists and pedestrians using this new path will be treated to stunning views of the Suisun Bay, as well as the Carquinez Bridge and the Mothball Fleet.
The 2.2 mile bidirectional pedestrian & bicycle lane was added as part of the $50 million seismic retrofit of this bridge.
Thank you to Curtis Corlew, who rode across the bridge with his wife on opening day.
Engrish Bicycle
On a bicycle downtube...
"If every Jack and Gill loves bicycle so much, every road would be so marvelous place." From Engrish Funny.
"If every Jack and Gill loves bicycle so much, every road would be so marvelous place." From Engrish Funny.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Study claims cyclists at fault in only 10 percent of crashes
I was hoping to put this off until tomorrow, but it's breaking news right now on the NYT, Freakonomics, and the LCI list.
A few days ago, the University of Toronto released an interview on it's website with Dr. Chris Cavacuiti. Here's an excerpt:
Dr. Chris Cavacuiti of the department of family and community medicine is a staff physician at St. Michael’s Hospital and an experienced cyclist who commutes on his bicycle and races competitively. He was recovering from a serious cycling accident when he began his research on cycling health and safety.
...While there is a public perception that cyclists are usually the cause of accidents between cars and bikes, an analysis of Toronto police collision reports shows otherwise: The most common type of crash in this study involved a motorist entering an intersection and either failing to stop properly or proceeding before it was safe to do so. The second most common crash type involved a motorist overtaking unsafely. The third involved a motorist opening a door onto an oncoming cyclist. The study concluded that cyclists are the cause of less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents in this study.
The available evidence suggests that collisions have far more to do with aggressive driving than aggressive cycling.
On Wednesday, the university added this correction:
Dr. Chris Cavacuiti has informed us that his interview contains a factual error.
In the interview, Dr. Cavacuiti is quoted as saying “The [Toronto Collision] study concluded that cyclists are the cause of less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents”. Dr. Cavacuiti has asked us to make readers aware that the Toronto Collision study was actually designed to look at the cause of bicycle/motorist collisions but not culpability.
It is actually several studies conducted by the Charles Komanoff and member of the Right of Way organization in New York that concluded that concluded that cyclists were strictly culpable for less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents.
Dr. Cavacuiti would like to apologize for any confusion this error may have caused.
Komanoff's study - if that's the right word for it - is available on the Cars Suck website. A reasonable person would be hard pressed to expect unbiased, objective information from an organization with such a name, and in fact, Komanoff's study is little more than an anti-motoring diatribe laced with emotionally loaded phrases. For that matter, the study itself is called Killed by Automobile. If you really want to read it, follow this link to Cars Suck, then click on Research/Killed by Automobile. Please wash your hands afterward. This is a raw exercise in fear mongering, as in riding-a-bike-is-a-horribly-dangerous-experience, and as any rational, experienced cyclist knows, it's totally wrong.
• Right of Way systematically analyzed a full year’s fatalities (1997) for cause and culpability (neither city nor state authorities do so). Our criteria for culpability are largely based on New York State traffic law, and are detailed below, beginning on p. 17. Driver culpability could not be ascertained in 22 percent of cases; drivers were clearly not culpable in only 7 percent, they were strictly or largely culpable in 58 percent, and partly culpable in an additional 13 percent; combining the two latter categories, drivers were at least partly culpable in at least 71 percent of all New York City pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities.
• If we exclude the 22 percent of cases in which culpability could not be determined (because police accident reports were missing, incomplete, illegible, or contradictory), the proportions are: driver strictly or largely culpable, 74 percent; driver partly culpable, 16 percent; driver not culpable, 10 percent.
Right Of Way frames crash culpability primarily in terms of driver action rather than that of the pedestrian or cyclist, though the pedestrian’s actions may be relevant to the collision and should be considered in any case.
Let's reiterate that last - Right Of Way frames crash culpability primarily in terms of driver action - it's telling us that Right of Way draws conclusions, then looks for data to support those conclusions. That's not advocating for better conditions for cyclists. It's political gamesmanship and nakedly partisan. This does nothing to improve conditions on our roads. It merely serves to increase conflicts.
Please don't fall for this.
A few days ago, the University of Toronto released an interview on it's website with Dr. Chris Cavacuiti. Here's an excerpt:
Dr. Chris Cavacuiti of the department of family and community medicine is a staff physician at St. Michael’s Hospital and an experienced cyclist who commutes on his bicycle and races competitively. He was recovering from a serious cycling accident when he began his research on cycling health and safety.
...While there is a public perception that cyclists are usually the cause of accidents between cars and bikes, an analysis of Toronto police collision reports shows otherwise: The most common type of crash in this study involved a motorist entering an intersection and either failing to stop properly or proceeding before it was safe to do so. The second most common crash type involved a motorist overtaking unsafely. The third involved a motorist opening a door onto an oncoming cyclist. The study concluded that cyclists are the cause of less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents in this study.
The available evidence suggests that collisions have far more to do with aggressive driving than aggressive cycling.
On Wednesday, the university added this correction:
Dr. Chris Cavacuiti has informed us that his interview contains a factual error.
In the interview, Dr. Cavacuiti is quoted as saying “The [Toronto Collision] study concluded that cyclists are the cause of less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents”. Dr. Cavacuiti has asked us to make readers aware that the Toronto Collision study was actually designed to look at the cause of bicycle/motorist collisions but not culpability.
It is actually several studies conducted by the Charles Komanoff and member of the Right of Way organization in New York that concluded that concluded that cyclists were strictly culpable for less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents.
Dr. Cavacuiti would like to apologize for any confusion this error may have caused.
Komanoff's study - if that's the right word for it - is available on the Cars Suck website. A reasonable person would be hard pressed to expect unbiased, objective information from an organization with such a name, and in fact, Komanoff's study is little more than an anti-motoring diatribe laced with emotionally loaded phrases. For that matter, the study itself is called Killed by Automobile. If you really want to read it, follow this link to Cars Suck, then click on Research/Killed by Automobile. Please wash your hands afterward. This is a raw exercise in fear mongering, as in riding-a-bike-is-a-horribly-dangerous-experience, and as any rational, experienced cyclist knows, it's totally wrong.
• Right of Way systematically analyzed a full year’s fatalities (1997) for cause and culpability (neither city nor state authorities do so). Our criteria for culpability are largely based on New York State traffic law, and are detailed below, beginning on p. 17. Driver culpability could not be ascertained in 22 percent of cases; drivers were clearly not culpable in only 7 percent, they were strictly or largely culpable in 58 percent, and partly culpable in an additional 13 percent; combining the two latter categories, drivers were at least partly culpable in at least 71 percent of all New York City pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities.
• If we exclude the 22 percent of cases in which culpability could not be determined (because police accident reports were missing, incomplete, illegible, or contradictory), the proportions are: driver strictly or largely culpable, 74 percent; driver partly culpable, 16 percent; driver not culpable, 10 percent.
Right Of Way frames crash culpability primarily in terms of driver action rather than that of the pedestrian or cyclist, though the pedestrian’s actions may be relevant to the collision and should be considered in any case.
Let's reiterate that last - Right Of Way frames crash culpability primarily in terms of driver action - it's telling us that Right of Way draws conclusions, then looks for data to support those conclusions. That's not advocating for better conditions for cyclists. It's political gamesmanship and nakedly partisan. This does nothing to improve conditions on our roads. It merely serves to increase conflicts.
Please don't fall for this.
46 years for bike theft
Them Germans know how to handle bike thieves -- an 82 year old man has spent 46 years of his life in the clink for bike theft. He was first convicted in 1947, when he was 20 years old. Each time he gets out of prison, he goes right back to stealing bikes again.
Local police, who have nicknamed the bike thief "Buffalo Bill" because of his distinctive white mustache, say Rudi is always on the prowl with bolt cutters looking for bikes to take. "Once he wanted to peddle a mountain bike at the fair grounds. He just sprayed it with green paint. The paint smell was still fresh." Rudi's current prison term -- his 45th -- ends in October 2010, when bike thief Rudi P will be 85 years old.
More at The Berliner Kurier [Google translation here ]. Via Rad Spannerei in Germany.
Local police, who have nicknamed the bike thief "Buffalo Bill" because of his distinctive white mustache, say Rudi is always on the prowl with bolt cutters looking for bikes to take. "Once he wanted to peddle a mountain bike at the fair grounds. He just sprayed it with green paint. The paint smell was still fresh." Rudi's current prison term -- his 45th -- ends in October 2010, when bike thief Rudi P will be 85 years old.
More at The Berliner Kurier [Google translation here ]. Via Rad Spannerei in Germany.
Creepy Phil's back yard
This is the Google Map view of "Creepy Phil" Garrido's backyard, where Jaycee Lee Dugard and her two children were imprisoned.
Note the blue tarps and tents. If you want to punch the address in yourself, it's 1554 Walnut Avenue, Antioch, CA. Streetview is also available of this address.
Note the blue tarps and tents. If you want to punch the address in yourself, it's 1554 Walnut Avenue, Antioch, CA. Streetview is also available of this address.
Barack Obama rides a bicycle
I like the LA Times blog commentary on no helmet Obama as he rides around the bike paths of Martha's Vineyard. Discussion also Copenhagenize.
Some of the reaction from the peanut gallery include "truly despicable," and "What kind of fool doesn't wear a helmet?"
If you want to wear a helmet on a slow bike ride, fine, but throw labels around like "fool" and "despicable" is way out of line, IMO.
Some of the reaction from the peanut gallery include "truly despicable," and "What kind of fool doesn't wear a helmet?"
If you want to wear a helmet on a slow bike ride, fine, but throw labels around like "fool" and "despicable" is way out of line, IMO.
USA Cycling Pro Championships
The USA Pro Cycling Championships takes place this weekend. James lives there and I expect to see good photos from him. My friend and sometime contributor to Cyclelicious Michael Franken is also in Greenville this weekend to shoot some photos.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
A friend in need
A friend needs to sell this frame, a new Serotta Meivici Custom Carbon Road Frameset 52cm. The eBay listing is here.
Marisa Tomei rides a bicycle
Marisa Tomei holds on as boyfriend Logan Marshall Green pedals the bike and takes the lane in Soho while filming the new movie "Letters to Juliet."
Thursday bicycle news
Christian Science Monitor: Can bikes and cars share the road?
Women's Cycling Magazine Issue#1. Well done Marian, Carson and Echo.
Bill Cunningham NY Bike Fashion slide show.
Cafiend had an interesting week.
How young is too young to carry your child by bike? (and by the way, congrats to Momentum Magazine editor Tania Lo on the birth of her son!)
Van De Velde to race in Tour of Missouri.
New bike lane on Skyline.
Photo: Transporting salt in Indonesia.
How many bikes can Morgan haul at once?
EXTREME FAT TIRE bicycle.
Cash for Clunkers Portland Style.
Make ice cream with your bike.
Review: Swobo Crosby bicycle.
Bicycle parking Guard Dog.
Women's Cycling Magazine Issue#1. Well done Marian, Carson and Echo.
Bill Cunningham NY Bike Fashion slide show.
Cafiend had an interesting week.
How young is too young to carry your child by bike? (and by the way, congrats to Momentum Magazine editor Tania Lo on the birth of her son!)
Van De Velde to race in Tour of Missouri.
New bike lane on Skyline.
Photo: Transporting salt in Indonesia.
How many bikes can Morgan haul at once?
EXTREME FAT TIRE bicycle.
Cash for Clunkers Portland Style.
Make ice cream with your bike.
Review: Swobo Crosby bicycle.
Bicycle parking Guard Dog.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Henry Ian Cusick rides a bicycle
Henry Ian Cusick, who plays Desmond on 'Lost', rides a Specialized bicycle during the bike portion of the Tag the World Triathlon in Waikiki, Hawaii.
Photo by Tina Lau / Splash News.
Photo by Tina Lau / Splash News.
Bomb threat San Jose Diridon Station
Update Wednesday afternoon 3:22 PM -- San Jose police have cleared the building, no bomb found, Diridon Station is now re-opening. Caltrain will resume service Real Soon Now.
Somebody reportedly scrawled a bomb threat on a bathroom mirror at San Jose Diridon Station this afternoon.
Caltrain stopped all trains -- no trains were moving through the station. Amtrak and ACE service was also suspended until San Jose police gave the all clear before 3:30 PM after searching the building. ACE and Amtrak Capital Corridor service was delayed by the bomb threat.
Bus service at Diridon Station was stopping on Montgomery Street adjacent to the station during the bomb scare, but things should be back to normal by the time you read this.
Somebody reportedly scrawled a bomb threat on a bathroom mirror at San Jose Diridon Station this afternoon.
Caltrain stopped all trains -- no trains were moving through the station. Amtrak and ACE service was also suspended until San Jose police gave the all clear before 3:30 PM after searching the building. ACE and Amtrak Capital Corridor service was delayed by the bomb threat.
Bus service at Diridon Station was stopping on Montgomery Street adjacent to the station during the bomb scare, but things should be back to normal by the time you read this.
42 Bromptons in a single parking space
That is, after all, the answer to the question of life, the universe, and everything.
From Boing Boing.
From Boing Boing.
Interbike 2009 fashion show
Watch for the second annual Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show, presented by Giant Bicycles, at Interbike 2009 on the show floor, Thursday, September 24 at 5:00 p.m.
"Interbike uses the Urban Legend Fashion Show to showcase the industry's growing enthusiasm for urban cycling and the exciting products that the segment supports," said Rich Kelly, Interbike marketing manager. "As with all of the products exhibited at Interbike, urban cycling gear and apparel is best appreciated in action."
Instead of a traditional catwalk, a road loop surrounded by bicycle-inspired art will be laid out on the main show floor in hall D of the Sands Expo Center. The Urban Legend audience will gather in and around the loop while models ride through it. The innovative layout allows attendees "front-row seats" to watch the models show off the function and fashion of urban bikes and cycling apparel.
"We loved what Interbike did with the fashion show last year and thought sponsoring it this year would be a great way for Giant to highlight its new lifestyle products," said Elysa Walk, general manager of Giant Bicycles. "There is a lifestyle boom taking place in the consumer market and Giant wants to be part of it."
Inspired and styled by Momentum Magazine, the Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show will be a celebration of urban sustainability, culture and style. Highlights will include stylish, smart, sexy and professional clothing for every season that fits into everyday life and works great on a bike. Instead of typical athletic shorts and jerseys, models will sport practical urban and casual cycling wear while riding urban, folding, utilitarian and commuting bikes.
To complement the cycling fashion on the runway, cycling-inspired art by a variety of artists will be on display at the fashion show venue.
Product submissions for possible inclusion in the Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show are due no later than September 9. To make a submission, send a completed product submission form and lo-res photo to Mia Kohout at mia@momentumplanet.com. For art submissions, please send an email to at Thomas Prehn at thomasprehn@me.com.
For schedule information about the Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show and other events at the 2009 Interbike International Bicycle Expo, please go to www.interbike.com/eventsseminars/master-schedule.
See also: Photos and video 2008 Urban Legend Fashion & Art Show.
"Interbike uses the Urban Legend Fashion Show to showcase the industry's growing enthusiasm for urban cycling and the exciting products that the segment supports," said Rich Kelly, Interbike marketing manager. "As with all of the products exhibited at Interbike, urban cycling gear and apparel is best appreciated in action." Instead of a traditional catwalk, a road loop surrounded by bicycle-inspired art will be laid out on the main show floor in hall D of the Sands Expo Center. The Urban Legend audience will gather in and around the loop while models ride through it. The innovative layout allows attendees "front-row seats" to watch the models show off the function and fashion of urban bikes and cycling apparel.
"We loved what Interbike did with the fashion show last year and thought sponsoring it this year would be a great way for Giant to highlight its new lifestyle products," said Elysa Walk, general manager of Giant Bicycles. "There is a lifestyle boom taking place in the consumer market and Giant wants to be part of it."Inspired and styled by Momentum Magazine, the Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show will be a celebration of urban sustainability, culture and style. Highlights will include stylish, smart, sexy and professional clothing for every season that fits into everyday life and works great on a bike. Instead of typical athletic shorts and jerseys, models will sport practical urban and casual cycling wear while riding urban, folding, utilitarian and commuting bikes.
To complement the cycling fashion on the runway, cycling-inspired art by a variety of artists will be on display at the fashion show venue.
Product submissions for possible inclusion in the Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show are due no later than September 9. To make a submission, send a completed product submission form and lo-res photo to Mia Kohout at mia@momentumplanet.com. For art submissions, please send an email to at Thomas Prehn at thomasprehn@me.com.For schedule information about the Urban Legend Fashion and Art Show and other events at the 2009 Interbike International Bicycle Expo, please go to www.interbike.com/eventsseminars/master-schedule.
See also: Photos and video 2008 Urban Legend Fashion & Art Show.
Remove stink from your bicycle jersey
Like I do every year as summer ends, I've been mulling the question of stinky bicycle jerseys. How do you remove the stink? Why do my jerseys and shirts come out of the wash smelling clean, but then after I start wearing it the funk is quickly reactivated?
Bike Commuters recently addressed this question and suggested pre-soaks, baking soda and wool. Another suggestion is Sink the Stink, a kind of pre-emptive strike against stink that uses bacteria to digest and eliminate the filth that leads to funk. Other good suggestions are made -- vinegar, borax, and Sport Wash, a laundry soap used by hunters to eliminate body odor.
What causes the stink?
Sweat is mostly odorless, but bacteria that colonize in the sweat glands such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionobacteria spp ferment the bacteria to create various malodorous fumes. Some of these bacteria are also responsible for the smell in the stronger smelling cheeses we like to eat.
Underarm hair, incidentally, works to wick sweat away from the skin and help prevent underarm odor, and hair is naturally resistant to sweat bacteria. This is part of the reason wool doesn't stink -- it's naturally designed to fight sweat stink.
How does the stink return?
Several people (including me) have pulled a jersey out of the wash, smelled the pits, and called it good. After wearing it for an hour or so, though, the smell comes back and with a vengeance. There are a couple of reasons this happens.
1. The wash might have eliminated or weakened the odor causing bacteria but the food wasn't removed. As soon as you put that jersey on, you've restored perfect conditions for that bacteria to thrive and ferment some more.
2. The sweat wicking and water resistant properties of many high tech fabrics also keeps wash water from getting all the way into the fabric and washing the dirt away -- the water and detergent can't get to the fibers, so it never really gets clean. Besides the naturally odor-fighting properties of wool, wool also washes much easier than synthetic fibers.
How do I remove the stink?
The best solution is to ensure your clothes are completely clean. Here are the various solutions I've heard of and tried.
1. Borax. Ed first suggested this one to me a while back and it's been a part of my standard bike clothing cleaning for a couple of years now. I don't know if it kills the bacteria or makes the cleaning more effective, but it works reasonably well on my clothing.
2. Baking soda. I've tried this too. It probably works by deodorizing the stink instead of eliminating it. It doesn't seem to work too well for me.
3. Hot water pre-rinse. Don't do this -- a hot water pre-rinse seems to make the stink problem worse, not better. The same goes for drying in a hot dryer -- that seems to lock in the smell for time activated release in the future.
4. Vinegar. I first heard about vinegar a few weeks ago. Some people say it makes the stink worse, but for me it works better than anything else I've tried. It probably depends on the local water chemistry (I have very hard water - Langelier Saturation Index greater than +0.5 and water hardness near 300 ppm) and probably works by making the laundry detergent more effective.
5. Special cleaners. I haven't tried the specialty cleaners like Sink the Stink or Sport Wash. Stink the Sink is designed for wetsuits, and I know those get very funky -- divers and surfers use the bathroom while wearing them, after all. Sport Wash and similar products are used by hunters to get their hunting gear extra clean and eliminate any human odor that might spook their prey. I plan to give both of these a try and I'll report back.
6. Deoderizers. By 'deoderizers' I mean perfumes to mask the smell. Dryer sheets and heavily perfumed laundry detergents seem to add to the funk, IMO. YMMV. I've even tried eucalyptus and other plant based extracts -- those result in exciting new and different combination of funk.
There are many other good comments and suggestions at Bike Commuters. What works for you?
Bike Commuters recently addressed this question and suggested pre-soaks, baking soda and wool. Another suggestion is Sink the Stink, a kind of pre-emptive strike against stink that uses bacteria to digest and eliminate the filth that leads to funk. Other good suggestions are made -- vinegar, borax, and Sport Wash, a laundry soap used by hunters to eliminate body odor.
What causes the stink?
Sweat is mostly odorless, but bacteria that colonize in the sweat glands such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionobacteria spp ferment the bacteria to create various malodorous fumes. Some of these bacteria are also responsible for the smell in the stronger smelling cheeses we like to eat.
Underarm hair, incidentally, works to wick sweat away from the skin and help prevent underarm odor, and hair is naturally resistant to sweat bacteria. This is part of the reason wool doesn't stink -- it's naturally designed to fight sweat stink.
How does the stink return?
Several people (including me) have pulled a jersey out of the wash, smelled the pits, and called it good. After wearing it for an hour or so, though, the smell comes back and with a vengeance. There are a couple of reasons this happens.
1. The wash might have eliminated or weakened the odor causing bacteria but the food wasn't removed. As soon as you put that jersey on, you've restored perfect conditions for that bacteria to thrive and ferment some more.
2. The sweat wicking and water resistant properties of many high tech fabrics also keeps wash water from getting all the way into the fabric and washing the dirt away -- the water and detergent can't get to the fibers, so it never really gets clean. Besides the naturally odor-fighting properties of wool, wool also washes much easier than synthetic fibers.
How do I remove the stink?
The best solution is to ensure your clothes are completely clean. Here are the various solutions I've heard of and tried.
1. Borax. Ed first suggested this one to me a while back and it's been a part of my standard bike clothing cleaning for a couple of years now. I don't know if it kills the bacteria or makes the cleaning more effective, but it works reasonably well on my clothing.
2. Baking soda. I've tried this too. It probably works by deodorizing the stink instead of eliminating it. It doesn't seem to work too well for me.
3. Hot water pre-rinse. Don't do this -- a hot water pre-rinse seems to make the stink problem worse, not better. The same goes for drying in a hot dryer -- that seems to lock in the smell for time activated release in the future.
4. Vinegar. I first heard about vinegar a few weeks ago. Some people say it makes the stink worse, but for me it works better than anything else I've tried. It probably depends on the local water chemistry (I have very hard water - Langelier Saturation Index greater than +0.5 and water hardness near 300 ppm) and probably works by making the laundry detergent more effective.
5. Special cleaners. I haven't tried the specialty cleaners like Sink the Stink or Sport Wash. Stink the Sink is designed for wetsuits, and I know those get very funky -- divers and surfers use the bathroom while wearing them, after all. Sport Wash and similar products are used by hunters to get their hunting gear extra clean and eliminate any human odor that might spook their prey. I plan to give both of these a try and I'll report back.
6. Deoderizers. By 'deoderizers' I mean perfumes to mask the smell. Dryer sheets and heavily perfumed laundry detergents seem to add to the funk, IMO. YMMV. I've even tried eucalyptus and other plant based extracts -- those result in exciting new and different combination of funk.
There are many other good comments and suggestions at Bike Commuters. What works for you?
Nicolas Sarkozy rides a bicycle
French President Nicolas Sarkozy rides his bicycle while vacationing in Cap Negre, South of France last weekend.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Scofflaw motorists
While there is a public perception that cyclists are usually the cause of accidents between cars and bikes, an analysis of Toronto police collision reports shows otherwise: The most common type of crash in this study involved a motorist entering an intersection and either failing to stop properly or proceeding before it was safe to do so. The second most common crash type involved a motorist overtaking unsafely. The third involved a motorist opening a door onto an oncoming cyclist. The study concluded that cyclists are the cause of less than 10 per cent of bike-car accidents in this study.From University of Toronto Research, via How We Drive.
I wasn't going to post this Pearl Izumi road rage video (I can co-exist with cars on the road), but since there is misinformed animosity from some motorists, it kind of fits.
Foes Racing commuter bicycle
"Commuter bikes are very popular but practically 99.9% of commuter bikes are made overseas," says Brent Foes, designer of Foes Racing full suspension mountain bike frames that start at $3,000 and go up from there.
Foes has applied his expertise in high performance mountain biking to create the Foes Pasadena Crown City Commuter Bike.
"I am hoping that there is a customer who will recognize that a frame hand-made in the USA is something really special. To stand out in the crowd I have taken care to create a distinctive and recognizably American style frame and built the complete bike with excellent components," says Foes of the Pasadena.
According to Foes, he designed the bike to be light and agile but with enough give to make it comfortable on urban streets.
"Even the very expensive aluminum commuter frames felt pretty much like riding around on a coffee cans," says Foes. The frame he created for the Pasadena is "the perfect combination of lateral stiffness for acceleration and small bump compliance for comfort."
This bike will be available after September 1 at Foes dealers. MSRP $1,199 frame only, with different build options at $2099 and $2599.
MTBR has video and photos of Pasadena prototypes that were shown during the Sea Otter Expo last spring in Monterey, California. I'll try to look this bike over at Interbike.
Foes has applied his expertise in high performance mountain biking to create the Foes Pasadena Crown City Commuter Bike.
"I am hoping that there is a customer who will recognize that a frame hand-made in the USA is something really special. To stand out in the crowd I have taken care to create a distinctive and recognizably American style frame and built the complete bike with excellent components," says Foes of the Pasadena.
According to Foes, he designed the bike to be light and agile but with enough give to make it comfortable on urban streets.
"Even the very expensive aluminum commuter frames felt pretty much like riding around on a coffee cans," says Foes. The frame he created for the Pasadena is "the perfect combination of lateral stiffness for acceleration and small bump compliance for comfort."
This bike will be available after September 1 at Foes dealers. MSRP $1,199 frame only, with different build options at $2099 and $2599.
MTBR has video and photos of Pasadena prototypes that were shown during the Sea Otter Expo last spring in Monterey, California. I'll try to look this bike over at Interbike.
Britney Spears rides a pedicab
Britney Spears and kids go for a pedicab ride in Central Park, New York City.
Photos by Winslow / Prahl / Splash News
Photos by Winslow / Prahl / Splash News
Flat tire and no patch kit? No problem
You're a miles from anywhere and you get a flat tire on your bicycle. The glue in your patch kit is dried out, you're out of CO2 cartridges, and you don't have a spare tube. What do you do?
The usual recommended solution is to stuff your tire with dry grass and leaves. I've never had to do that personally, but people who have done it tell me it can work well enough to keep from damaging the rim, though shoving the tire onto a grass stuffed rim can be a challenge.
I have tried this solution offered on Life Hacker, which is to tie the leaky area off with some string. I wasn't able to make that trick work, but Your Mileage May Vary and if you're desperate it doesn't hurt to try.
You should avoid riding on a flat tire. You can damage your rim -- if you flat it's likely the rear tire and the wheel is generally the second most expensive part of your bike after the frame. Your tire will also easily roll off of the rim, causing you to lose control even at slow speeds.
The usual recommended solution is to stuff your tire with dry grass and leaves. I've never had to do that personally, but people who have done it tell me it can work well enough to keep from damaging the rim, though shoving the tire onto a grass stuffed rim can be a challenge.
I have tried this solution offered on Life Hacker, which is to tie the leaky area off with some string. I wasn't able to make that trick work, but Your Mileage May Vary and if you're desperate it doesn't hurt to try.
You should avoid riding on a flat tire. You can damage your rim -- if you flat it's likely the rear tire and the wheel is generally the second most expensive part of your bike after the frame. Your tire will also easily roll off of the rim, causing you to lose control even at slow speeds.
Billy Zane rides a bike
Billy Zane and girlfriend Kelly Brook ride their bicycles by Valerie Salon in Los Angeles last weekend.
See more Billy Zane bicycle here.
See more Billy Zane bicycle here.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Sound Vest
Wearing earphones while bicycling in traffic can be dangerous and is possibly illegal where you live. You want tunes while you ride. One possible answer is this Soundwalk Audio Vest.
The Sound Vest holds your portable audio and the speakers built in to the vest straps provide the sound.
More about this in this video from The Gadget Show.
The Sound Vest holds your portable audio and the speakers built in to the vest straps provide the sound.
More about this in this video from The Gadget Show.
Tag the World celebrity charity triathlon
Here's Matt Schulze from The Fast and the Furious on a Colnago.
"The Bachelor" Andy Baldwin riding barefoot on an Orbea!
More --> Tag the World charity triathlon.
"The Bachelor" Andy Baldwin riding barefoot on an Orbea!
More --> Tag the World charity triathlon.
Unusual Tandem Bicycle
I saw this unusual tandem bicycle in Santa Cruz last week. I'm trying to figure out some of the weird features of this tandem.
For example,
For example,
- How does that big ring inside the timing chain stay in place?
- What is that extra set of cranks under the stokers bars for? Russ suggests these might be hand cranks, but I think they might allow a very short rider to pedal recumbent style.
- What about that handle that appears to stick out obliquely from the stoker's saddle? Another hint that this might be for a short rider?
Sunday, August 23, 2009
San Jose Bike Party last Friday
I wasn't there but know some people who were, and by all accounts the changes the Bike Party organizers made resulted in a much smoother and more lawful ride.
Wirehead's video demonstrates some of the vibe of last Friday's bike party -- much mellower than some of the other recent rides.
Wirehead has some more photos and a ride report here. See also SJ Bike Party Reflections on August’s Beach Blanket Bike Along and Banane "BIke Party!"
Wirehead's video demonstrates some of the vibe of last Friday's bike party -- much mellower than some of the other recent rides.
Wirehead has some more photos and a ride report here. See also SJ Bike Party Reflections on August’s Beach Blanket Bike Along and Banane "BIke Party!"
Josh Brolin rides a bicycle
Actor Josh Brolin rides his bike in between takes while filming a new Woody Allen movie in London, UK.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Carlos Leon rides a bicycle
Madonna baby's daddy and personal trainer Carlos Leon is spotted biking around in the Lower East Side in NYC.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Evolution of an Amsterdam Road
No matter where you stand on the facilities debate, I think you'll find the beginning of this video interesting, which shows how Amsterdamsestraatweg -- the road to Amsterdam -- has changed since its beginning in 1812 as Napoleon's Imperial Route Number 2.
The sidepath reminds me of the two way sidepath along West Cliff Drive and Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California.
Via How We Drive and Hembrow.
The sidepath reminds me of the two way sidepath along West Cliff Drive and Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California.
Via How We Drive and Hembrow.
Friday roundup
The three day Tour of Ireland started today. Steephill.TV Tour of Ireland dashboard. The photo is Brit Russell Downing of CandiTV-Marshalls Pasta winning Stage 1 of the Tour of Ireland.
How many Snickers bars are contained in the energy of a 70 mph SUV crash? The answer may surprise you. Hint: It's about the same as contained in a leisurely 10 mile bike ride.
Because I love all things Specialized, I point you to this post on Zertz, "the miracle elasto polymer made with meteorite dust and the molecular essence of hybrid rubber plants grown in secret silos miles beneath the surface of the Earth."
iPhone app as a virtual bike fitting tool.
Bike scrounging tips.
The high cost of no bicycle parking.
Cops who drive dangerously.
Bike Forums Norcal Gang.
I'm seeing links to this bike ballet video everywhere. Ditto this 3 wheeled camper bicycle. I used to draw pictures of stuff like that when I was a kid in the 70s.
1001 uses for old inner tubes.
Top 20 green colleges.
Huff: Health care debate and teen obesity.
US Bike Route System grants.
Thoughts on my bike
This wonderful video is Andrya Dorfman's entry to the 2009 NYC Bicycle Film Festival.
H/T to Kat Roberts in San Francisco.
H/T to Kat Roberts in San Francisco.
Soho Bike NYC
The purple babydoll dress probably caught the Sartorialist's eye, but we know he also likes bicycles just like we do. BSNYC recently mocked people who lock their bikes to construction scaffolding, but he mocks everybody so judge for yourself if it's a good idea or not.
At The Sartorialist, everybody comments on how they love how the flip flops and her toenails match her dress. I love how the rusty rims match the copper frame color that matches the rider's auburn hair. That front basket rocks, too.
See the original over at Sartorialist: On the Street....Soho Bike, NYC.
At The Sartorialist, everybody comments on how they love how the flip flops and her toenails match her dress. I love how the rusty rims match the copper frame color that matches the rider's auburn hair. That front basket rocks, too.
See the original over at Sartorialist: On the Street....Soho Bike, NYC.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
I HAS SOCIAL MEDIA MAD SKILLZ
This blog post is my application to join the Specialized Trail Crew.
I debated with myself for about, oh, 8 seconds, because having use of an AWESOME 2010 Stumpjumper FSR from Specialized along with gear and FREE MOUNTAIN BIKE TRIPS might have an impact on my journalistic integrity and the trust you, my readers, have in me to provide truthful, unbiased information about bicycles and related products.
But I'm better than that. There's absolutely no way that a major bike company could effectively bribe me. But that's because Specialized already knows they have the best bicycles in the business. Since that's the truth, I can't lie can when I write product reviews that highlight the many superlative qualities of everything in Specialized's product line.
I know this because the Local Bike Shops I buy from are Scotts Valley Cycle Sport in Scotts Valley and The Spokesman in Santa Cruz -- both of them Specialized dealers. I tell everybody I know to go to those shops.
When I ride, it's often in my Specialized gear -- I have Specialized shorts, jerseys, helmet, gloves, shoes and socks. I even make the extra effort to get those rare Specialized water bottles.
I think Specialized road bikes are so awesome I even hit steep, sandy singletrack on my Specialized Roubaix.
The Roubaix tackles dirt, roots, logs and rocks with perfection, of course, but I believe Specialized transcends perfection with the 2010 Stumpjumper FSR, especially on the sandy trails of the Santa Cruz Mountains. I'd love the opportunity to test that belief.
There was that one alleged incident with me and Specialized on April 1, 2008, but that really wasn't me, honest! It was an imposter, somebody who tried to sully my good name!
I'm influential all over the Web 2.0 Internets -- 1,800 followers on Twitter, hundreds of friends on Facebook, thousands of views on my YouTube account, thousands of views every day on my Flickr photos, thousands of visitors to my blog everday -- I'm there and I'm active. I'm also on Plus 3 Network. I've even joined the most awesomely outstanding social networking site out there, which is the Specialized Riders Club.
I'm an influencer in the meatworld too -- people ask me what kind of bike they should buy, and I always tell them to look at Specialized and nothing else!
I have a sneaking suspicion that at least one or two of the group trail rides will be right here in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and I'm already right here so Specialized won't have to pay for my travel to those trails! Nisene Marks, Soquel, Wilder, UCSC, Henry Cowell and Big Basin -- I already know and enjoy those locations!
Catching up
Road Bike Across Kansas is a new blog geared to beginners. The blog author, Jackie, is new to cycling and says she absolutely loves it. "It's a really intimidating sport," she tells me, "so I am trying to cover the basics, including definitions and basic information about finding a great bike shop, choosing a bike, encouragement to get out and ride, as well as talking about my journey toward doing Bike Across Kansas in 2011." Check out Jackie's Kansas cycling blog and say hello when you have a chance.
Global Agent for Change: Riding to break the cycle looking for tour support drivers. Deadline September 1 2009.
Robin Williams talked about his heart surgery and cycling on Conan Obrien. H/T.
The Bike List is a very nicely done website to help consumers choose a bike and then find a UK dealer who sells the bike.
San Jose Bike Plan -- public comment taken until August 27.
Chicks on Bikes <-- Not what you might think!
Santa Cruz riding for rights.
L'Eroica Boulder scheduled for October 4. For you perverts, "L'Eroica" is Italian for "The Hero." It's a bike ride.
Neat photo essay: Biking Through Colombia.
CC: Strangers working together.
Dahon folder with iPhone charger.
Pearl Izumi tries viral marketing - Ban The Speed Shop.
Global Agent for Change: Riding to break the cycle looking for tour support drivers. Deadline September 1 2009.
Robin Williams talked about his heart surgery and cycling on Conan Obrien. H/T.
The Bike List is a very nicely done website to help consumers choose a bike and then find a UK dealer who sells the bike.
San Jose Bike Plan -- public comment taken until August 27.
Chicks on Bikes <-- Not what you might think!
Santa Cruz riding for rights.
L'Eroica Boulder scheduled for October 4. For you perverts, "L'Eroica" is Italian for "The Hero." It's a bike ride.
Neat photo essay: Biking Through Colombia.
CC: Strangers working together.
Dahon folder with iPhone charger.
Pearl Izumi tries viral marketing - Ban The Speed Shop.
A visit to Amsterdam
Kona Bikes visited Amsterdam, talked to the people biking around, looked at the facilities and made this video.
Tori Spelling rides a bicycle
Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott take the kids out on a family bike ride around Malibu. The little ones are riding in the iBert Safe-T Seat.
See more Tori Spelling: Celebrity iBert Spotting.
See more Tori Spelling: Celebrity iBert Spotting.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
3 bicycle recalls in 1 day
It's a busy day for the US CPSC to issue bicycle recalls. Early this morning the US CPSC issued recall notices for Felt bicycles and Burley child trailers.
This afternoon they added a recall for Nirve Cannibal Bicycles. The bicycle stem can crack and cause the rider to lose control, posing a risk of serious injury if the rider falls. his recall involves Cannibal “Chopper” model bicycles with graphic designs by artist Corey Miller. The bicycles have a black matte finish. The affected bicycles have a serial number within the following range: L8E0300001 – L8E1001050. Serial numbers are located on the bottom of the bicycle between the pedals.
See Nirve recall page for detailed information.
This afternoon they added a recall for Nirve Cannibal Bicycles. The bicycle stem can crack and cause the rider to lose control, posing a risk of serious injury if the rider falls. his recall involves Cannibal “Chopper” model bicycles with graphic designs by artist Corey Miller. The bicycles have a black matte finish. The affected bicycles have a serial number within the following range: L8E0300001 – L8E1001050. Serial numbers are located on the bottom of the bicycle between the pedals.
See Nirve recall page for detailed information.
Road rage = "terroristic threat"
Minnesota Statute 609.713 defines a "Terroristic Threat" as threatening violence with the purpose to terrorize another person. After Mitchel Pieper of Burnsville, MN, tried to run over a bicyclist with his pickup truck and then came at the cyclist with an ax, Peiper was charged with making "terroristic threats" (a felony) against the cyclist.
What's your opinion? Props to the Dakota County Attorney for getting serious about assault? Or is this felony charge an example of cheapening the word "terrorism," as security expert Bruce Schneier believes?
What's your opinion? Props to the Dakota County Attorney for getting serious about assault? Or is this felony charge an example of cheapening the word "terrorism," as security expert Bruce Schneier believes?
Recalls: Felt CX and Burley child trailers
The CPSC gave two recall notices this morning for bicycle products:
This is apparently a reminder of an earlier recall. The bicycle’s fork steerer tube can break, causing the rider to lose control and fall, posing a risk of injury. Felt Bicycles has received six reports of the bicycle forks breaking, including two reports of minor cuts and scrapes. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled bicycles and contact a local Felt Bicycles dealer to receive a free inspection and repair. For additional information contact Felt Bicycles toll-free at (866) 433-5887 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Visit Felt's website for more info.
The axle assembly’s internal sleeve can loosen, causing one wheel to separate from the trailer. This poses a risk of injury to the child occupant or bike rider. The recalled products are two-wheeled child trailers designed to carry one or two children behind a bicycle. Only the 2009 d’lite ST and 2009 Solo ST trailers with serial numbers that begin with D939 or D948 are included in the recall. The serial number is located in the rear cargo area behind the seat on the lower left rear frame tube. The trailers have “d’lite ST” or “solo ST” screen printed on the cover. Consumers should stop using the trailer immediately and contact Burley to receive a free repair kit or to locate a retailer to assist with the free repair. Visit Burley's ST recall web page for more details.
2007/2008 Felt F1X Cyclocross Bicycles
This is apparently a reminder of an earlier recall. The bicycle’s fork steerer tube can break, causing the rider to lose control and fall, posing a risk of injury. Felt Bicycles has received six reports of the bicycle forks breaking, including two reports of minor cuts and scrapes. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled bicycles and contact a local Felt Bicycles dealer to receive a free inspection and repair. For additional information contact Felt Bicycles toll-free at (866) 433-5887 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Visit Felt's website for more info.
2009 Burley d’lite ST and Solo ST Child Trailers
The axle assembly’s internal sleeve can loosen, causing one wheel to separate from the trailer. This poses a risk of injury to the child occupant or bike rider. The recalled products are two-wheeled child trailers designed to carry one or two children behind a bicycle. Only the 2009 d’lite ST and 2009 Solo ST trailers with serial numbers that begin with D939 or D948 are included in the recall. The serial number is located in the rear cargo area behind the seat on the lower left rear frame tube. The trailers have “d’lite ST” or “solo ST” screen printed on the cover. Consumers should stop using the trailer immediately and contact Burley to receive a free repair kit or to locate a retailer to assist with the free repair. Visit Burley's ST recall web page for more details.
I saved money on car insurance...
Somebody is apparently searching for the phrase, “I just saved a bunch of money on my car insurance by switching to Shimano.”
Exercise Compassion responded on Twitter with “I just spent more than my car insurance by switching to Campagnolo.”
And then, “Better yet - I just spent more than my car by switching to Rohloff.”
Have a great evening.
Exercise Compassion responded on Twitter with “I just spent more than my car insurance by switching to Campagnolo.”
And then, “Better yet - I just spent more than my car by switching to Rohloff.”
Have a great evening.
Celebrities and invisible bikes
I know some Cyclelicious readers think my celebrities on bikes posts are a little strange.
I'll raise your strange and take you to bizarre with these celebrities on invisible bikes photos.
More photoshopped celebrity fun at Holy Taco.
I'll raise your strange and take you to bizarre with these celebrities on invisible bikes photos.
More photoshopped celebrity fun at Holy Taco.
Gerard Butler rides a bicycle
Gerard Butler and a friend get a bit of exercise on their Sunday by biking around Downtown Manhattan.
And check this out -- the Scottish actor and his friend are the way over near the centerline of the road.
Gerard James Butler is known for his portrayal of King Leonidas in "300," The Phantom in the 2004 film version of "The Phantom of the Opera," Gerry Kennedy in "P.S. I Love You," and One Two in "RocknRolla."
And check this out -- the Scottish actor and his friend are the way over near the centerline of the road.
Gerard James Butler is known for his portrayal of King Leonidas in "300," The Phantom in the 2004 film version of "The Phantom of the Opera," Gerry Kennedy in "P.S. I Love You," and One Two in "RocknRolla."
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Lawyer vs. Lawyer
Jeff Detlefs is an attorney with Kerr Brosseau Bartlett O'Brien in Denver. He was allegedly driving drunk on the shoulder of I-70 at Evergreen Parkway when he struck cyclist Rex Hegyi with his Lexus GX470 SUV. Rex is an attorney with the Jefferson County public defender's office.
Detlefs, who had three children in the car with him as he drove drunk, left the scene. Police tracked him down because his front license plate fell off in the collision. Rex Hegyi remains hospitalized in serious condition.
More:
Detlefs, who had three children in the car with him as he drove drunk, left the scene. Police tracked him down because his front license plate fell off in the collision. Rex Hegyi remains hospitalized in serious condition.
More:
- Denver Post: Attorney charged in I-70 hit-run of cyclist.
- 9 News: Driver accused of hitting cyclist also faces child abuse charges
- Examiner: Attorneys clash.
2009 Tour of Utah
Tour of Utah resources
Daily online video recaps at YouTube / Tour of Utah.
Facebook Tour of Utah.
Tour of Utah official website.
Twitter official feed @TheTourOfUtah
Watch / listen for race updates (video and audio) at KJZZ.com. During the race, you can listen to Tour updates hourly on KFAN 1320 am and every 20 minutes on ESPN RADIO 1230.
Where to watch the Tour of Utah.
Podium Insight will cover the Tour of Utah online. I imagine The Fredcast will also if David recovers from his hard disk crash in time.
Visit the Tour of Utah dashboard at Steephill.TV for much more and for updates.
The Tour of Utah begins this evening with a short time trial that starts and ends near the State Capitol in Salt Lake City. After four stages of "America's Toughest Stage Race," the Tour of Utah concludes next Sunday with a 90 minute downtown SLC criterium.Daily online video recaps at YouTube / Tour of Utah.
Facebook Tour of Utah.
Tour of Utah official website.
Twitter official feed @TheTourOfUtah
Watch / listen for race updates (video and audio) at KJZZ.com. During the race, you can listen to Tour updates hourly on KFAN 1320 am and every 20 minutes on ESPN RADIO 1230.
Where to watch the Tour of Utah.
Podium Insight will cover the Tour of Utah online. I imagine The Fredcast will also if David recovers from his hard disk crash in time.
Visit the Tour of Utah dashboard at Steephill.TV for much more and for updates.
There's an interesting mix of local shop teams, Under 23 development squads, and local boy David Zabriskie riding solo representing Garmin Slipstream. The Continental teams include some Euro veterans and big names like Floyd Landis, Freddie Rodriguez and Oscar Sevilla; they'll certainly give Z a run for his money. Fly V is coming in from Australia. The "KFAN Composite Team" is a team put together by the local sports radio station KJZZ.
I see some northern California names on the race roster, including Ben Jacques-Maynes of Watsonville and Jackson Stewart of Los Gatos.
Lorien Haynes rides a bicycle
Anna Paquin rides a bike along the beach with Stephen Moyer's ex-girlfriend, Lorien Haynes.
I know Anna's bike is Nirve's Hello Kitty bike, but I can't make out the headbadge on Lorien's cruiser. Does anybody know what that is?
See also: Ann Paquin rides a bicycle and Anna Paquin cycles home.
I know Anna's bike is Nirve's Hello Kitty bike, but I can't make out the headbadge on Lorien's cruiser. Does anybody know what that is?
See also: Ann Paquin rides a bicycle and Anna Paquin cycles home.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Freakonomics looks at used bicycle prices
Freakonomics blog contributor Robin Goldstein decided to get an inexpensive, used bike to get around like the natives on his recent visit to Portland, Oregon. What he discovered, however, is there is no such thing as "used" and "inexpensive" when it comes to bicycles in Portland.
In the chart that Robin created, there's an inverse relationship between used car prices and used bike prices. In other words, in cities where used bike prices are the highest, used car prices are the lowest.
Read more at Freakonomics blog.
Yeah, the bike guy answered, he had something super-cheap for me, an old road bike that they’d fixed up. It wasn’t exactly my size, but it would do. It was a 1991 model, a Trek, I think. It was in good working condition, it had some newer components, and it came with a warranty. I could have it, he said, for $475.
So I started looking at Craigslist — not just in Portland, but in other cities too. I looked at a wide range of midsized-to-large cities that I thought represented a diversity of urban layouts, bike prevalence, wealth, and so on: Austin, Miami, New York City, Phoenix, Portland, San Francisco, and Seattle.
From each of these cities I collected an extremely basic data set: the asking prices for the 50 most recent cars, trucks, and bikes advertised. Then I looked at the medians. Here’s what happened...
In the chart that Robin created, there's an inverse relationship between used car prices and used bike prices. In other words, in cities where used bike prices are the highest, used car prices are the lowest.
Read more at Freakonomics blog.
Maker Faire Africa?
Who knew?
MAKE Magazine sponsored a Maker Faire in Accra, Ghana over this last weekend. Among the many projects on display are bicycle mechanic Bernard Kiwia's power saw built from repurposed bicycle parts.
More at MAKE Magazine. See also Maker Faire Africa website.
MAKE Magazine sponsored a Maker Faire in Accra, Ghana over this last weekend. Among the many projects on display are bicycle mechanic Bernard Kiwia's power saw built from repurposed bicycle parts.
More at MAKE Magazine. See also Maker Faire Africa website.
Vattenfall Cyclassics
Tyler Farrar of Team Garmin-Slipstream celebrates his victory at the Vattenfall Cyclassics on August 16, 2009 in Hamburg, Germany.
Sharing the podium with Tyler Farrar are German Gerald Ciolek (Milram) in 3rd place and Dane Matti Breschel (Saxo Bank) in 2nd.
More:
Photos by Krafft Angerer/Bongarts/Getty Images.
Sharing the podium with Tyler Farrar are German Gerald Ciolek (Milram) in 3rd place and Dane Matti Breschel (Saxo Bank) in 2nd.
More:
- Slipstream Sports: Tyler Farrar wins Vattenfall.
- Daily Peloton: 14th Vattenfall Cyclassics - ProTour Photos.
- Velonews: Tyler flies.
- Bicycling: A long time coming.
Photos by Krafft Angerer/Bongarts/Getty Images.
Adorable Zooey Deschanel
Did you know that Google lists well over 40,000 web pages with the words "adorable Zooey Deschanel?
Zooey Deschanel has posed with a bicycle before, and now she's spotted in Vanity Fair looking adorable next to a European style omafiets promoting cotton fabrics.
In this cotton promotion video, the adorable Zooey Deschanel walks a bike while singing about "The Fabric of Our Lives."
Zooey Deschanel has posed with a bicycle before, and now she's spotted in Vanity Fair looking adorable next to a European style omafiets promoting cotton fabrics.
In this cotton promotion video, the adorable Zooey Deschanel walks a bike while singing about "The Fabric of Our Lives."
AnnaLynne McCord rides a bicycle
AnnaLynne McCord rides a pink Nirve cruiser bicycle on the set of "90210", where she plays the show's lead character Naomi Clark.
See more and larger @ Celebrity Gossip: AnnaLynne McCord: Bicycle Beautiful.
See more and larger @ Celebrity Gossip: AnnaLynne McCord: Bicycle Beautiful.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Lucy rides a bicycle in Melbourne
Scott Schuman visited Australia last month for his street style photography. He also shot some catalog photos for SABA Denim that included Lucy here on a Giant road bike.
Sartorialist: When we first met Lucy.
A little more Lucy here.
Sartorialist: When we first met Lucy.
A little more Lucy here.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Santa Cruz fire
Empire Grade Road closed at Felton-Empire / Ice Cream Grade Roads.
A portion of Empire Grade Road in the Santa Cruz Mountains is closed due to the Lockheed Fire burning in Santa Cruz County. This road is a favorite among local cyclists, including me.
Theoretically, I can still do my Felton / Empire Grade / Santa Cruz ride -- Empire Grade is open from Felton Empire / Ice Cream all the way down into the UCSC Campus. The smoke, however, is amazingly thick along Empire Grade, and it's not healthy to breath this stuff.
The mountain bike trails from Big Basin to Wilder Ranch to Henry Cowell are also covered in smoke. I don't know about the trails further south, but I hear the smoke is bad all the way down to Watsonville.
I hate to write this, but stay inside and save your lungs for a better day.
Photos by Richard Masoner.
A portion of Empire Grade Road in the Santa Cruz Mountains is closed due to the Lockheed Fire burning in Santa Cruz County. This road is a favorite among local cyclists, including me.
Theoretically, I can still do my Felton / Empire Grade / Santa Cruz ride -- Empire Grade is open from Felton Empire / Ice Cream all the way down into the UCSC Campus. The smoke, however, is amazingly thick along Empire Grade, and it's not healthy to breath this stuff.
The mountain bike trails from Big Basin to Wilder Ranch to Henry Cowell are also covered in smoke. I don't know about the trails further south, but I hear the smoke is bad all the way down to Watsonville.
I hate to write this, but stay inside and save your lungs for a better day.
Photos by Richard Masoner.
Frankie Andreu sings about bicycles
Like Tyler @ Bike Rumor writes, "I just can’t figure out why this never caught on."
From The Bike Show.
From The Bike Show.
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