The winter from Hell:
This winter sucks, Period, it will not end. And thats all I have to say about that.
The battle for White Lines:
So here we go again into the throws of a battle over white lines painted on the ground. I am of course referring to bike lanes. The proposal has been presented, and the residence are of course pissed off at the world of bikes and cyclists once again. Can I suggest something? Well, first of all let me say this: If your easily offended then go to a Happy Touchy Feely Blog, because this one is about to kick you in the proverbial ass.
How about this. How about instead of changing streets we change the Culture in which we live. This is not my concept, it's not even a new concept, but hear me out on this. Most people want bike lanes. I want a flipping revolution. At the risk of sounding like one of the "Epic Cyclist" from the LAB, I don't really give a shit if there is a bike lane where I am going, I will be taking the lane and your gas guzzling piece of the "American Dream" can either A) Hit me or B) Go around me. But back to the point at hand, bike lanes and people pissed we are going to paint the street in front of their house. You want to know the secret to getting people on board to bike lanes? It's You. So bend over because here comes the boot.
You are the key. You getting on YOUR BIKE is the key. Not just when there is some touchy feely ride for so and so, not just when the local Race the Lake comes to town, not just when the sun is shining and it is between 68.5 and 69.8 degrees outside with a light breeze, at your back of course. But you on YOUR BIKE as much as humanly possible is the key. Not talking about riding your bike, not preaching the importance of the environment to anyone who will listen, not arguing with residence over the benefits of a healthy society, none of that crap is going to do it. YOU getting on your bike to go to work, you getting on your bike to go to the store, the farmers market, the liquor store, your drug dealer, hell I don't care where you go, just do it on your dam bike. Do it in the Spring, Summer, Fall, and are you ready for it: maybe even the winter when you can, it can be done, hell I have a neighbor that will show you how to make chains for your bike, that work really well. Stop with the acting. Stop with the whining about this that and the other thing. Stop it, put on the big boy and big girl pants and get your ass on your bike. Then what happens is your kids might start to think that bikes can be a viable mode of transportation, and they will realize they can go anywhere on their bikes, and then pretty soon our kids are running this rock and bikes are part of the culture, not just something a few of us wackos do.
Can it be done all the time? Depends, it depends on how far you are willing to take it, it depends on your individual situation. BUT, don't tell me some bullshit about how you can't replace your car with your bike for at least one or two trips a week. Then maybe a few more trips a week, then, well your intelligent readers, you get it. Hell, I still drive to the store occasionally, I feel like a total jackwagon when I do, but I do.
There are those of you out there that cannot ride a bike because of medical or health reasons, and to you I say continue to fight on with us, we need all the help we can get. This entire conversation doesn't even apply to you.
You want bike lanes, get on your bike and prove it to the city you live in. When traffic counts show more bikes than cars, bike lanes won't be a fight. When business's are screaming for one of College Aves lanes each way to be changed to a bike lane because cyclists are overwhelming them with their business, Bike lanes won't be a fight. When our kids see bikes as normal, and they start running this world, well by then bike lanes won't be the exception, they will be the norm. It's already starting, check out the numbers on teens and those who think a license is vital, the number is dropping, fast.
Get on your dam bike, stop talking about doing it and fighting for things and start living it. And above all be good to each other.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Transport Initial Impressions...
Well, 2 rides under the belt, and here is my initial impressions of the new Trek Transport. Giggles (my wife) and I took a shall we say brisk ride downtown yesterday to our local Library to pick up some reading material. It was a balmy 18 degrees F, and a nice little breeze to boot. The first thing that really surprises me about this bike is the fact that even though it's a Long Tail, it is extremely light, unloaded of course. I also loved to be riding an upright bike again, and the cockpit is pleasurable to be in, even when it's cold outside. The bike has plenty of get up and go, and seems to be geared well enough. Giggles followed on her Racing Mountain Bike, and found I was pulling away from her when I really gave it on some clearer sections of road. Not bad. Not bad at all.
So, we made our way downtown, made a stop for some Carrot Cake Muffins, and headed home with some books and tasty baked goods. I got home, dismounted and put the center kick stand down and turned away from the bike for 5 seconds only to hear the bike, my Brand New bike, crash to the ground. Although I only had 10 pounds on the one side in the huge awesome bag that comes with the bike, it was enough to cause the topple. There are some sweet scratches on the lower load hauler on the one side as well as the front rack. Lesson Learned. HOLD THE DAM BIKE UNTIL UNLOADED.... The worst part is I KNEW this from my old commuter....why I thought this bike would be any different I have no idea. Maybe it's the center kickstand that gives one that false sense of stability, but don't believe it, it is a false hope at best, as you can see...
Today our little guy was itching to ride his new bike, and Giggles needed a few things from the store for work as well as for here at home. Off we went in the 24 degree heat wave. Again, super comfy ride, and I found a gear that is the perfect pace for my little guy, Awesome. We only hauled home about 50 pounds, distributed fairly equal on each of the lower load racks. The ride home was fine, not a whole lot more effort was required to get the bike up to cruising speed. I did have a little wobble from the rear, but that is because when we ride on the snow and ice around here without studded tires we generally run lower pressure for more grip. I will be getting some studded tires for the bike, and will have to remember to keep the rear at the proper pressure when hauling loads. All in all a good ride, and when we arrived home I unloaded the bike with one hand while making sure no topples occurred this time.
I love the huge bag Trek included with the bike, and have developed a plan for the other side that consists of 4 gallon square pails. The bag comes off easy, even when full, and was perfect for half the groceries we needed. The front rack does make a little whistling noise at cruising speeds, but was barely noticed. It's not an annoying whistle, more of a whisper type. I will need another lock however, as my current cable is no where near long enough to loop both wheels and the frame to a bike rack. We don't have a huge bike or wheel theft issue in the area, but I prefer to protect my investment the best I can. Other than that, I find no real flaws with the bike thus far, and have absolutely, hopelessly, fallen in love with it. Bikes have changed our life, and this bike is going to change it even more. I look forward to it. Stay tuned for more reviews, and more love stories. Until then, Be good to each other.
So, we made our way downtown, made a stop for some Carrot Cake Muffins, and headed home with some books and tasty baked goods. I got home, dismounted and put the center kick stand down and turned away from the bike for 5 seconds only to hear the bike, my Brand New bike, crash to the ground. Although I only had 10 pounds on the one side in the huge awesome bag that comes with the bike, it was enough to cause the topple. There are some sweet scratches on the lower load hauler on the one side as well as the front rack. Lesson Learned. HOLD THE DAM BIKE UNTIL UNLOADED.... The worst part is I KNEW this from my old commuter....why I thought this bike would be any different I have no idea. Maybe it's the center kickstand that gives one that false sense of stability, but don't believe it, it is a false hope at best, as you can see...
 |
| My new "lesson learned" reminder |
 |
| another of the same, Lower Load hauler. |
Today our little guy was itching to ride his new bike, and Giggles needed a few things from the store for work as well as for here at home. Off we went in the 24 degree heat wave. Again, super comfy ride, and I found a gear that is the perfect pace for my little guy, Awesome. We only hauled home about 50 pounds, distributed fairly equal on each of the lower load racks. The ride home was fine, not a whole lot more effort was required to get the bike up to cruising speed. I did have a little wobble from the rear, but that is because when we ride on the snow and ice around here without studded tires we generally run lower pressure for more grip. I will be getting some studded tires for the bike, and will have to remember to keep the rear at the proper pressure when hauling loads. All in all a good ride, and when we arrived home I unloaded the bike with one hand while making sure no topples occurred this time.
I love the huge bag Trek included with the bike, and have developed a plan for the other side that consists of 4 gallon square pails. The bag comes off easy, even when full, and was perfect for half the groceries we needed. The front rack does make a little whistling noise at cruising speeds, but was barely noticed. It's not an annoying whistle, more of a whisper type. I will need another lock however, as my current cable is no where near long enough to loop both wheels and the frame to a bike rack. We don't have a huge bike or wheel theft issue in the area, but I prefer to protect my investment the best I can. Other than that, I find no real flaws with the bike thus far, and have absolutely, hopelessly, fallen in love with it. Bikes have changed our life, and this bike is going to change it even more. I look forward to it. Stay tuned for more reviews, and more love stories. Until then, Be good to each other.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Help if you can...Please....
We have a friend in need. I say "We", because even if you don't know my friends over at a Simple Six, you will see there work in an upcoming cargo bike movie. Not only that, but you would thank them for the fighting for cyclist rights they do, the tips for new cargo bikers they give, and just the all around good vibe these awesome Bike People give.
Here's the Skinny: A Simple Six is a family of six with not one but 2 cargo bikes. They ride everywhere, and are truly a driving force behind the idea that a Bike can change lives, communities, and even the country. They have a son, Avery, who is really sick, sick with something called
So here is how we can help, if you feel so inclined to do so, please help out. Even the smallest amounts will go a long ways.
Here's the Skinny: A Simple Six is a family of six with not one but 2 cargo bikes. They ride everywhere, and are truly a driving force behind the idea that a Bike can change lives, communities, and even the country. They have a son, Avery, who is really sick, sick with something called
So here is how we can help, if you feel so inclined to do so, please help out. Even the smallest amounts will go a long ways.
Be good to each other, and if you feel so inclined, to these folks as well. If you can help with a card, send some Good Karma, your thoughts, your prayers, whatever it is you do, just send it their way!!!
Friday, February 8, 2013
Quick Book Review...
Bike Tribes, by Mike Magnuson
You should know Mike Magnuson's name. You really should, he contributes to Bicycling Mag, and has a few other books out there that you need to read if you haven't. But, lets get to the lowdown on Mag's new book, Bike Tribes.
I enjoy Mag's writing style, and this book is no exception. It puts together everything we need to know about the different style of cyclist that neither you nor I could put to words. The book is a good read, and it will hold your attention as it took me maybe a total of 5 hours to get through it. 5 Hours I don't regret at all. This book should be mandatory reading for anyone who buys a bike, or is new to cycling. I put it right up there with the now classic Bike Snob.
Some highlights for me were the chapters on Roadies, Mountain Bikers, and Commuters. It is good to know I am not the only one with a strong dislike for jerky roadies, and a love for those that run Cross. It was also refreshing to read a book that doesn't rip apart the lowly bike commuter.
So, in short, I give it a 5 out of 5. Pick up a copy, check it out from your local library, steal it from a friend, you won't be disappointed.
I enjoy Mag's writing style, and this book is no exception. It puts together everything we need to know about the different style of cyclist that neither you nor I could put to words. The book is a good read, and it will hold your attention as it took me maybe a total of 5 hours to get through it. 5 Hours I don't regret at all. This book should be mandatory reading for anyone who buys a bike, or is new to cycling. I put it right up there with the now classic Bike Snob.
Some highlights for me were the chapters on Roadies, Mountain Bikers, and Commuters. It is good to know I am not the only one with a strong dislike for jerky roadies, and a love for those that run Cross. It was also refreshing to read a book that doesn't rip apart the lowly bike commuter.
So, in short, I give it a 5 out of 5. Pick up a copy, check it out from your local library, steal it from a friend, you won't be disappointed.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
And the Winner is...
It hit me like a flash, like a vision, and I could not believe I didn't think of it sooner. But, a huge thanks to the folks on the (R)Evolutions Per Minute group on Facebook for all their advice and support. As a matter of fact, it was a member there, Mike, who brought it up. The Trek Transport.
You see, I work very Part time at this LBS in the summer helping build bikes, and I used to drool over this bike. I even rode the bike a few times. But, for some reason it never crossed my mind, until Mike mentioned it on the Board. Then, the light bulb came on and beat me over the head. You see, because we have stuck with this LBS we get some pretty sweet deals on the things we purchase there. They work with us on bikes and gear, and help sponsor the kids Mountain Bike Team. Hell they even employ my sorry butt through the summer. So I made the call, "Is it still there?"
Dave answered the message "Nope, it sold a few months back, but let me see if there is one available."
2 Hours later I got the news, "There's one at another store, and we can get it to you for $#@#.00" I almost fell over. The price was insanely cheap, like $500.00 off retail cheap. It was a show bike, so had been ridden, but was all complete and still in new shape. I couldn't believe it, but to be sure I went and rode it through the basement like 5 times just to be extra sure.
A few things I like about the Transport: The fold up Load Decks on each side, The huge bag you see, the front rack, the transmission (same as my old commuter), Disc Brake up Front, Front Fender, Double kick stand.
A Few Things I will have to deal with: Aluminum Frame, 20lb capacity on the front rack, Only one bag included, and the noisy front keeper spring. I will also be adding a rear fender ASAP, like before it even comes home. I have also heard the fold up load carriers are a little rattly, but have also heard it is nothing a bungee cord can't fix. I didn't notice it while riding it though.
A few words about the other bikes and some things I learned along the way, mind you, Long Tail wise:
The Surly Big Dummy was the most recommended bike, and a very close second was the Yuba. The issue I had with the Big dummy was it was a really expensive bike. It was at the very top of my budget, and with three boys to feed, it was a hard nut to crack. Not that it's price makes it a bad bike. Honestly if money were no object I would have bought it after the stories I heard from the owners of them. From what I learned it is one of the best, if not the best on the market.
The Yuba was great entry level price wise, but the additions of bags, front racks, kid haulers, etc got it right up there with the BD in a hurry. Again, budget is a huge factor around here, especially going into summer, and WORS season. But again it is not a bad bike. I did hear, from dealers of them, the component group is cheaper to keep the price down. Not a huge determent for me, as I have owned bikes with "Cheaper" Component groups and never really had an issue. The deciding factor was the fact there was not one to ride anywhere in the state of Wisconsin. I had a dealer say he would bring one in for me, after I put 25% down on it, and I was stuck with it like it or not. Not cool.
The Kona Ute was either reviewed with love or hate. There was no in between. Again, it was a dealer issue. This one never returned my calls. I wasn't crazy about the aluminum frame, which I now will deal with on the Trek Transport. I also heard quite a few people say it carried it's load too high, thus making it a tippy bike. But, again, it came down to a dealer not having one or returning my calls about it. Crazy right?
So the Transport it is. We will be bringing it home as soon as Uncle Sam returns our money too us, so by the end of the month for sure. It came down to a super affordable bike, from a shop I have dealt with for quite a while, whom I trust a great deal. It also comes from a manufacturer who I trust as I have owned quite a few Treks. I am sure it will not be "Perfect", but after riding it a bit, I think I overlooked the most obvious choice I had. Stay tuned for reviews and pics and more reviews. Until then be good to each other.
Dave answered the message "Nope, it sold a few months back, but let me see if there is one available."
2 Hours later I got the news, "There's one at another store, and we can get it to you for $#@#.00" I almost fell over. The price was insanely cheap, like $500.00 off retail cheap. It was a show bike, so had been ridden, but was all complete and still in new shape. I couldn't believe it, but to be sure I went and rode it through the basement like 5 times just to be extra sure.
A few things I like about the Transport: The fold up Load Decks on each side, The huge bag you see, the front rack, the transmission (same as my old commuter), Disc Brake up Front, Front Fender, Double kick stand.
A Few Things I will have to deal with: Aluminum Frame, 20lb capacity on the front rack, Only one bag included, and the noisy front keeper spring. I will also be adding a rear fender ASAP, like before it even comes home. I have also heard the fold up load carriers are a little rattly, but have also heard it is nothing a bungee cord can't fix. I didn't notice it while riding it though.
A few words about the other bikes and some things I learned along the way, mind you, Long Tail wise:
The Surly Big Dummy was the most recommended bike, and a very close second was the Yuba. The issue I had with the Big dummy was it was a really expensive bike. It was at the very top of my budget, and with three boys to feed, it was a hard nut to crack. Not that it's price makes it a bad bike. Honestly if money were no object I would have bought it after the stories I heard from the owners of them. From what I learned it is one of the best, if not the best on the market.
The Yuba was great entry level price wise, but the additions of bags, front racks, kid haulers, etc got it right up there with the BD in a hurry. Again, budget is a huge factor around here, especially going into summer, and WORS season. But again it is not a bad bike. I did hear, from dealers of them, the component group is cheaper to keep the price down. Not a huge determent for me, as I have owned bikes with "Cheaper" Component groups and never really had an issue. The deciding factor was the fact there was not one to ride anywhere in the state of Wisconsin. I had a dealer say he would bring one in for me, after I put 25% down on it, and I was stuck with it like it or not. Not cool.
The Kona Ute was either reviewed with love or hate. There was no in between. Again, it was a dealer issue. This one never returned my calls. I wasn't crazy about the aluminum frame, which I now will deal with on the Trek Transport. I also heard quite a few people say it carried it's load too high, thus making it a tippy bike. But, again, it came down to a dealer not having one or returning my calls about it. Crazy right?
So the Transport it is. We will be bringing it home as soon as Uncle Sam returns our money too us, so by the end of the month for sure. It came down to a super affordable bike, from a shop I have dealt with for quite a while, whom I trust a great deal. It also comes from a manufacturer who I trust as I have owned quite a few Treks. I am sure it will not be "Perfect", but after riding it a bit, I think I overlooked the most obvious choice I had. Stay tuned for reviews and pics and more reviews. Until then be good to each other.
Monday, January 28, 2013
The Longtail Dilemma...
My mind is made up, I think.
I am in the market for my last ever commuter bike, so I want something that is going to last, indefinitely. I thought I just wanted a simple commuter, belt drive, internal hub, fenders, disc brakes, etc. But then I thought about a Long Tail cargo bike. The more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. I use my bike like most people use their car, and truck for that matter. I have a 6 foot trailer, but it isn't the best method of grocery shopping, things get jiggled around, eggs break, you get the point. So I have decided on a Long Tail, and my mind was made up, until I did some research. Here are the 3 contenders:
Surly Big Dummy:
If you know Surly, you know this thing is going to be like a Sherman Tank. One thing that really impressed me about this bike is the fact that Surly actually Encourages you to take it on singletrack if you feel the need to do so. The disadvantage, the list price on it is pretty insane. But a LBS is working on an actual price for me as we speak, so we shall see.
Kona Ute:
Kona has been making these for quite a few years now, and people seem to be very happy with them. The only thing that scares me: Aluminum Frame. Granted it has a lifetime warranty, but it is still Aluminum. The other two bikes have steel frames. Look at any touring- hauling specific bike and you will more than likely find steel. Either Kona is on to something, or I worry too much... Price wise it is a huge Value. The load is also carried higher, but the bike is rated for more weight than the BD.
Yuba Boda Boda:
The Boda Boda is by far the cheapest of the bikes, as is it's bigger brother, the Mundo. The good folks over at A Simple Six own a pair of Mundo's and are happy with them. The price of the base bike is very reasonable, but the problem becomes adding things like a front basket, running boards, bags, etc. By the time all of the options are added, the price is right there with the Kona and just a tad lower than the Big Dummy.The component group is not near the others though..
So here is the cry for help. I know where I am leaning, and that is the Big Dummy. BUT, I am open to suggestions on these three bikes. I know there are Bullits and others, but realistically these are the three in my price range, albeit one is at the Max.
So if you have experience with these please please please chime in and help a guy out. I will keep you posted as to which one calls the house home, but before that I need to make a decision. Help me out if you have experience with these. Until I decided, Be good to one another!!!
I am in the market for my last ever commuter bike, so I want something that is going to last, indefinitely. I thought I just wanted a simple commuter, belt drive, internal hub, fenders, disc brakes, etc. But then I thought about a Long Tail cargo bike. The more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. I use my bike like most people use their car, and truck for that matter. I have a 6 foot trailer, but it isn't the best method of grocery shopping, things get jiggled around, eggs break, you get the point. So I have decided on a Long Tail, and my mind was made up, until I did some research. Here are the 3 contenders:
Surly Big Dummy:
Kona Ute:
Yuba Boda Boda:
So here is the cry for help. I know where I am leaning, and that is the Big Dummy. BUT, I am open to suggestions on these three bikes. I know there are Bullits and others, but realistically these are the three in my price range, albeit one is at the Max.
So if you have experience with these please please please chime in and help a guy out. I will keep you posted as to which one calls the house home, but before that I need to make a decision. Help me out if you have experience with these. Until I decided, Be good to one another!!!
Sunday, January 27, 2013
A New Beginning Has Arrived...
Spring is coming, it has to be. I know this because my mailbox is overflowing with seed catalogs. I know because the other day I saw the very beginnings of a fantastic sunrise on the way to work. I know because I have been visiting LBS's. I know because there has been talk of greenhouses in the neighborhood. I know because....well because I can feel it in my soul.
Make no mistake, I am under no assumptions that winter is done with us yet. As much as I dream the Old Man would just give up his icy grip and let Sister Spring take over, right now, I know we are a long way from being there. But, once the Winter Solstice happens, the ever hopeless romantic in my soul welcomes the beginning of the end of the season we call winter, a season I could live without. The days are getting longer. The sun, she's beginning to peak at me with a smile from the eastern horizon on the morning commute. It is a good time.
We have been through a lot in the last year, and have come out ahead. We made some tough decisions to focus on the health and well being of one of our own, and have come out on top. Eli is now fine, and in hindsight I guess always was, but lumps have a way of focusing the mind, the soul, life. We had to walk away from groups we love, and have probably ignored way too many friends, and missed much in our local culture of Bikes and Cycling and those there. But, we are back. More importantly, Eli is back. He is ready to ride, to race, to live life without the boundaries of uncertainty, or a cautious dad on his case. It is Spring in our house already, a new season has dawned.
With this new season we are ready to get back and help our local cycling groups. To help get more people on bikes, and to promote a sustainable lifestyle. Our first mission is to help the FCCA get the "Lazy Sunday Rides" up and going. It is the vision of a good friend to get all ages on bikes at a relaxing enjoyable pace. No Lycra or Spandex here, just baggy shorts, t-shirts, and a "Go with the Flow" attitude. We are open to idea's on where to take these trips, but there is one catch: All the rides must include an Ice Cream or smoothie stop....
So let old man winter keep his grip for awhile. My lungs are finally used to sub zero temps, and my legs laugh at the challenge of snowy rides to work. Spring has already come to our house. We are all healthy and ready to embrace it. The shopping for the last commuter bike I will buy has begun. The plotting and planning of how we cyclists will take over the earth is back on track. Enjoy the last Old man Winter can throw at you, because no matter what, Spring WILL prevail eventually. Be good to each other!
Make no mistake, I am under no assumptions that winter is done with us yet. As much as I dream the Old Man would just give up his icy grip and let Sister Spring take over, right now, I know we are a long way from being there. But, once the Winter Solstice happens, the ever hopeless romantic in my soul welcomes the beginning of the end of the season we call winter, a season I could live without. The days are getting longer. The sun, she's beginning to peak at me with a smile from the eastern horizon on the morning commute. It is a good time.
We have been through a lot in the last year, and have come out ahead. We made some tough decisions to focus on the health and well being of one of our own, and have come out on top. Eli is now fine, and in hindsight I guess always was, but lumps have a way of focusing the mind, the soul, life. We had to walk away from groups we love, and have probably ignored way too many friends, and missed much in our local culture of Bikes and Cycling and those there. But, we are back. More importantly, Eli is back. He is ready to ride, to race, to live life without the boundaries of uncertainty, or a cautious dad on his case. It is Spring in our house already, a new season has dawned.
With this new season we are ready to get back and help our local cycling groups. To help get more people on bikes, and to promote a sustainable lifestyle. Our first mission is to help the FCCA get the "Lazy Sunday Rides" up and going. It is the vision of a good friend to get all ages on bikes at a relaxing enjoyable pace. No Lycra or Spandex here, just baggy shorts, t-shirts, and a "Go with the Flow" attitude. We are open to idea's on where to take these trips, but there is one catch: All the rides must include an Ice Cream or smoothie stop....
So let old man winter keep his grip for awhile. My lungs are finally used to sub zero temps, and my legs laugh at the challenge of snowy rides to work. Spring has already come to our house. We are all healthy and ready to embrace it. The shopping for the last commuter bike I will buy has begun. The plotting and planning of how we cyclists will take over the earth is back on track. Enjoy the last Old man Winter can throw at you, because no matter what, Spring WILL prevail eventually. Be good to each other!
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