So one night not long ago I’m riding in a part of east Dallas which I am no longer very familiar.  While I recognized the names of the streets, I could not figure out what direction I was riding.  I wanted north but the sun was down so I had to rely on my cell phone GPS…The cell phone with the dead battery.  The cell phone that has a nice compass app that works perfectly…When the battery is charged.  Luckily things worked out for me but I realized an old-fashioned compass was in order.

So the other day I’m in my local bike shop picking up a brake cable for a Fuji road bike that’s headed for the CL auction block and the compass you see below called out to me from a display rack.  I’m convinced this is one of the best $10 investments I’ve ever made.

On the other hand, last week I paid $10 to see the 2011 remake of the 2009 Swedish movie, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, with a good friend of mine.  I heard the book was good, and that the Swedish movie was compelling.  I’ve only seen the 2011 movie and as far as I’m concerned it was a waste of a perfectly good ten-dollar bill.  I had a nice time hanging out with a friend though, only the next time I pick the movie.  I thought this one was a stinker.  Most of the reviews are positive and that should have tipped me off that I would not be very impressed.

Girl With The Dragon Tattoo promotional photo

So the moral to the story is there are good ten dollar investments, and bad ones.  I’m convinced my clip-on bike compass is a good one.

- Chris

update – Pista reminded me of the film’s opening bad ass music and video by Trent Reznor and Karen O. I finally found a copy on Youtube.

The Dallas Chic Boutique ride began at Transit Bikes the other day and it was awfully nice of them to serve us all Mimosas while we waited in their shop for everyone to arrive.   I wasn’t really in the market for new bike bits until I saw the modest collection of bike bells.  I recalled I’ve meant to add bells to all of my bikes so I took this opportunity to pick out a nice, shiny, brass bike bell made by Crane.  In fact it’s so shiny I could not take a close photo without getting myself in it.  Oh well.

It’s those times when your cycling in a crowd and/or near pedestrians that having a good bike bell pays dividends in the safety department.

I believe this is the “Karen” model which means it’s brass and sports a coiled spring striker that has a bright ring to it. It’s easy to mount and like most bells there are two slots in the bracket to accommodate variances in handlebar widths.   Installation might have taken 2 minutes.
And as you can see in this video from Japan, bike bells aren’t just for bikes anymore.  Pedestrians using bike bells might be the next big thing in commuting on foot. Kanpai!

Anyhow, I’m a sucker for Mimosas on a Sunday morning, pour a couple for me in your shop and I’m going to spend some dough. I’m now one bike bell richer for it.

- Chris

Louis Vuitton  is a French fashion house originally founded back in 1854, by L Vuitton himself.  Fast forward to 2011 where the Vuitton crew collaborated with polo bike players Hannes Hengst and Grégory Barbier to develop the LV polo bicycle.  No idea if they plan to market this gem but we sure like the looks. Photo credit to Yorgo Tloupas via Project Space Arkitip Inc.

Bike Polo is an emerging sport in Dallas organized by some very nice folks. I posted some photos of one match back in April, you can see those  here. Drop by their Facebook page to learn more.

- Chris

Dallas Bicycle Polo

Planet Bike is a manufacturer of various bike bits and components. They are also an active bike advocacy group and promote more than just better bits. Their tagline is “better bicycle products for a better world” and when you dig below the surface you can see this is not marketing hype as much as it is a declaration, or mission statement. From their history:

In November of 1996, Planet Bike was founded in Madison, Wisconsin. In many ways, Planet Bike began as a social experiment that dedicated itself to doing business in a different way. Instead of being just another company that develops and sells products with profit as its end goal, Planet Bike wanted to help bring about positive change for people, their communities, and the environment. 

So it’s profits and positive change? Nice.

But the real reason I am posting about them is I love their banner photos, especially this one:Maybe I’m just a grumpy old man but as far as the sex appeal goes, a photo like that one is infinitely more appealing to me than the silly photos of women wearing a bikini/thong posed on a bike that we see plastered all over the internet; but yeah, we’ll admit we like skirts.  Don’t get me wrong, bikini girls have a place in art and advertising – with machine guns, of course.

And hint: pedaling while wearing flats and carrying the pumps in the basket might be a more sensible approach to cycling.  You can change to the fancier shoes when you arrive at your destination and you don’t risk breaking an ankle getting there.

Back to Planet Bike, when you read from their manifesto page you might find yourself wanting to sign on:

Just as we are conscious of the way cycling affects people and the environment, we are also aware of the impact that our products have on them. We”re sensitive to the lifecycle of our products. We pay keen attention to everything from ensuring a fair wage for factory workers, designing products to be both durable and fixable, minimizing packaging and using recyclable materials whenever, wherever we can.

Gandhi said, “Be the change that you want to see in the world.” To be that change we feel that we need to do more than just create products that make it easier for people to bike. That’s why we donate 25% of our profits to causes that promote bicycle use. We want to take part in a transportation revolution and hopefully inspire other companies and individuals to join us.

So let’s all ride our bikes and take care of ourselves and the planet we live on a little better. That’s really what we’re all about.

I don’t know of many companies who make contributing to anything other than their own bottom line much of a priority.  So cheers to Planet Bike for being socially conscious and understanding corporate responsibility.

Yeah, and how about these photos:

I’m a sucker for good photography and companies who are honestly trying to do good things, so this is one that I’d like to support.  I’m drilling into their inventory now to see what I might ask Santa to bring me.  He still owes me from all that coal I got last year.

ps: Plant Bike has a blog too.

- Chris

Public C7 bicycle via Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn is the latest furnishings, design and lifestyle retailer to include a bicycle in their offerings (catalog/internet only).  This one is a seven speed Public C7. At $849 it will set you back more than the Target Missoni, but it’s much more bike.

Here’s what they have to say about it:

wicker bicycle basket runs $40 extra, pooch not included

Commute in style with this surprisingly affordable and easy-to-shift seven-speed bike. Particularly suited for commuting in a skirt because there’s no cross-bar to swing your legs over.

Ours will be fully accessorized with Peterboro wicker basket, red bell, upgraded pedals, Brooks seat, brown ergo grips.

Comfortable: Steel tubing and accurate frame geometry make for a softer ride than with other materials. Seats are designed for normal clothing.

Ergonomic: Upright handlebars keep you looking forward, not down. They’re also kinder to your back.

Practical: Kickstands allow for easy parking. Chain guards keep grease off your fresh, clean clothes.

Modern: The Shimano 7-speed rear derailleur and Revo twist shifter brings state-of-the-art technology to the shifting system. Changing gears is done with a simple twist of the wrist.

Safe Braking: Alloy brakes combine with lightweight alloy rims with machined brake surfaces for quick, safe and controlled stops.

City Smart: 35mm tires are wide enough to handle curbs and potholes but narrow enough for speed.

Feet Friendly: Reinforced resin pedals designed wide enough to ride with boots, pumps, flip-flops, or anything in between.

Durable: The hi-tensile steel frame is guaranteed for life.

Public has a history of promoting the fashion/style/art aspects of cycling, see more from their blog here.  And speaking of all things chic, don’t forget the Dallas Cycle Chic Boutique ride this Sunday.

Speaking of merging cycling and retail, did anyone notice the photo of the woman riding a bike on the cover of one of the latest Avon catalogs?  It’s a good photo that captures the fun and style of leisure cycling.  I’ll scan the image and post it soon.

Speaking of Christmas, did you include any bike related items in your letter to Santa Claus this year?  I asked for three kick-stands.

- Chris

photos by Pottery Barn

Edit: I found the Avon ad online.  A far cry from the stupid crap GM posted.

Women’s clothing, accessories and home furnishings retailer, Anthropologie, is offering a rickshaw bicycle in their latest catalog. At $2,200 I’m not sure which I’d rather own, the rickshaw or a limited edition Pashley bike.  Actually it’s a no brainer, I’ll take the rickshaw. Here’s the description from their website:

DETAILS

While on a trip to India, some of our team flagged down a rickshaw for a spur-of-the-moment tour of the town. Inspired by the ride and feeling a bit whimsical, we decided to design our own set of wheels, with some very special touches like a collapsible kantha-fabric canopy, handlebar streamers, a bell for brrring-bringing on the bike path and even a headlight that illuminates when the pedals are cranked. An instant conversation starter on the road or on display, we’ll bet you’re whisked away on the adventure of a lifetime once you hop on – or into – our quixotic carriage. No two are exactly alike.

• Some assembly required; hardware included
• Iron, rubber, cotton
• 67″H, 35″W, 105″D
• Imported

More here.

Missoni for Target bicycle. photo by Justin Husman (click for source)

We discussed the Missoni for Target bicycle and it’s zany trademark zig-zag pattern here. In the comments of that post Justin Husman, local blogger and genuinely nice guy, offered to help assemble a local Missoni that came in a box.  So Claire asked for his assistance which he has now given.  Her bike is assembled and back in her possession. You can read Mr Husman’s thorough take on the Missoni here.

In short, other than a couple minor cosmetic concerns, Husman says the Missoni is a solid bike in the $400 price range.  He summarized:

“I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the bike to anyone that wants to ride, it’s fun and comfortable, and I’m sure will look great with some tall boots and a long skirt. Dress it up with a baguette, flowers, and a little dog and you will be the talk of the Critical Mass! I would also caution anyone who wants to buy this because it is limited to avoid paying a premium; much more than the MSRP of $400 is money poorly spent, in my opinion. You can get a nice Linus Mixte for $600 and that would be a much nicer bicycle, though not as limited.”

I’m planning to meet up with Claire soon to see it for myself and take some additional photos.  Until then drop by Husman’s The Plano Cyclist for more of his take on assembling and riding the Missoni.

Chris

Electra Custom Pedals

The problem – the original rat-trap pedals on my Peugeot UE-18 are too narrow, they dig in the outer sides of my shoes and don’t feel very good under my feet:

Narrow rat-trap pedals don't feel very good

The solution – Electra Custom pedals:

As Goldilocks might have said, these pedals feel just right...

Do they spin like highly machined, über expensive bike pedals?

No, they don’t.  They’re larger than typical block pedals that are just shy of $20 and aren’t intended to be some high-end, end all pedals. They’re wider than the previous pair and far more comfortable.  With that in mind I’m delighted I bought these and I’d do it again.

And for the purists out there (Mr. Husman) I have carefully stored the original pedals so that if and when I ever part with the bike the original components will follow it.

That said, I sure like my Peugeot UE-18 mixte.  It’s primarily my parade bike these days.

- Chris

Rugby Tweed Run collection. photo via Rugby.com (click for source)

As mentioned here, Rugby (Ralph Lauren) has introduced the “Tweed Collection” of apparel devoted to, well, tweed ride cycling culture.  They’ve actually done a very nice job recreating a classic, British inspired look.  No doubt much of their clothing line will appeal to those who enjoy tweed rides and those who just like sporting a vintage look.

Most noteworthy is they’ve partnered with Pashley Cycles to produce a limited edition (50 pieces) “Tweed Run” bike.  As luck would have it the Highland Park Village Rugby store has one of these bikes in stock, so I dropped by to see one in captivity. It’s a handsome bicycle.

In many respects the Tweed Run bicycle is simply a Ralph Lauren/Rugby branded Pashley Guv’nor with a two-speed and coaster brake (and a front hub brake will make Mr Husman happy) .  They’ve added some Ralph Lauren bling, head badge, stripes and such, but the bike is very much a Pashley Guv’nor,

“…the style and elegance of the 1930s Path Racer has returned with the Guv’nor. Based on the model made by the Company in the 1930s, the Guv’nor has a classic and relaxed style”

In other words, the geometry is super slack (i.e. “relaxed”) yet the turned-down bars give it a sporty feel.  Good to know.

So I had hoped my visit to the Rugby store would allow me to get close and intimate with the bike, in fact I planned to ride it; but as you can see it’s currently being used as a  display in what I’m calling their “Tweed” room.  Bummer.

at the Highland Park Village Rugby shop

I haven’t seen to many Pashley’s in the wild or in captivity so I didn’t really know what to expect.  Clearly Pashley is well-known and trusted name in cycling  but I’m no expert on them and due to the distance most of my observations are superficial at best.

That said I was immediately impressed by the rich, blue paint and subtle color scheme.  It really is a visually appealing bike and the Ralph Lauren/Tweed bling is pretty subtle overall, but it’s not like you’d be riding something ridiculous like a Guess shirt or some Nike swoosh that screams advertising.

The Brooks b17 and wrapped grips are apparent but my eyesight was not able to glean much more than that. The printed technical specifications can be read here, but they’re not terribly detailed (two speed coaster brake, Ralph Lauren bling, Brooks saddle, etc). I’m not sure how long the bike has been in the Dallas Rugby store, but I imagine most customers think it’s decor and not necessarily a bike that’s for sale nor would they know anything about the maker and such.  My guess is they’re not itching to sell it, there is no visible pricing or details which suggests the value is in the display ambiance it lends to the room.

I bet they’d sell it in a week if they put it on the floor and attach a price and a few details.  Put it in an ad in the newspaper and watch the curious flock to the shop.

In closing, my initial impression of the Rugby Tweed Run bicycle is a positive one.  It’s a very elegant, sporty bike to own and as I

mentioned, the brand bling is neither obnoxious nor distracting.  After all, it is a limited edition Ralph Lauren Rugby bicycle, so naturally it’s going to be branded as such.  But they have done that in a tasteful manner that doesn’t detract from the bike’s appearance.  And there’s something to be said about owning 1 of 50 Pashleys.

And for those of you interested in a Pashley, but something a bit skimpier than a $2,200 example, drop by the Oak Cliff Bicycle Company’s shop some time, they’re a Pashley dealer.

Until then check out this crazy graphic by Jamie Beck for Ralph Lauren Rugby Tweed Run site:

Like the graphic above? It’s a .gif done in a style called “cinemagraph”. Read more about cinemagraphs, Jamie Beck and Kevin Berg here.  Beck and Berg have done some compelling cinemagraphs and I find I’m increasingly inspired to grab my Sony video camera and give it a  go myself.

Stare at the one above for a minute and imagine what they might be saying to each other, or thinking.  Maybe it’s the bourbon but it’s kinda fun to me.  We should have a contest for the best caption.  The guy is playing with his handlebar while staring intensely at the woman, while she pretends not to notice the sexual tension hanging in the air.  Yes the azaleas are beautiful this time of year…

Moving right along…speaking of Tweed Runs and Rides…More on the Bike Friendly Oak Cliff November 13th 2011 Tweed Ride can be found here.

- Chris

Electra Girard bike bell. photo via Bicycling Magazine

I’ve become a fan of bike bells and though I currently only have one, I plan to add them to all of my bikes.  Bicycling magazine has just made my search for the next bike bell a little bit easier.  They’ve published a note called Our 16 Favorite Bike Bells.   What’s kinda neat is not only did they post photos of each one they also included a sound file so you can hear what they sound like.  Cute and helpful gimmick.

One critical note about bike bells, you want to avoid the ones that jingle/rattle

Portland Design Works King of Ding. photo via Bicycling magazine

while you’re riding.

On an unrelated note, what is up with Bicycling magazine never putting dates on their articles?  Full disclosure – I am not a fan of Bicycling magazine, but still, what is up with never dating their online material?

Nonetheless click here to drop by and see and hear some bike bells for yourself.

- Chris