Cargo Bikes : Go ahead and bring the kitchen sink. Story from NPR. {click on arrow below}

by Deena Prichep

What is Cyclocross ?

Raleigh RX 1.0

Surly Karate Monkey "As ageless as mud..."

Chum Bucket Red & Pitch Black

Frame> 100% Surly 4130 Cromoly Steel

Fork> 100% Surly 4130 Cromoly Steel

Crankset> Surly Mr. Whirly, forged aluminum, BCD Spider 33t

Freewheel> Shimano Single Speed 18t

Hubs> Surly New Model Hubs

Rims> Salsa Delgado, 700c

Tires> WTB Exiwolf DNA, 29x2.3"

Brakes> Avid BB7 disc

Saddle> WTB SST

Price> around $1100.00

Surly link - http://surlybikes.com/

Trek Navigator 3.0, "Cadillac Style"

Frame> Alpha White Aluminum
Fork> RST Neon T, w/lockout, 50mm
Crankset> Shimano M191, 48/38/28
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano M191, (R) Shimano Alivio
Hubs> (F) Alloy, (R) Shimano RM60
Rims> Bontrager Camino
Tires> Bontrager H2 Hard-Case, 26x2.0"
Brakes> Tektro V
Saddle> Bontrager Suburbia
Price> $550.00

In Europe up-rite bicycles are the norm. Maybe we should take a cue from our brothers and sisters across the pond and delve into the world of up-rites a little more.

link - http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/

Breaking Barriers in Afghanistan / story via Mountain 2 Mountain Organization

On October 3rd this year, my birthday coincidentally, I became the first woman to mountain bike in Afghanistan. The irony of accomplishing something like this was that it started out so simply….each trip I’ve spent in Afghanistan I’ve longed for my bike. The goat trails, the dirt roads, and the incredible mountains scream out to me to get pedalling!

THe non profit that Team M2M supports, Mountain 2 Mountain, is focused on women and children’s education and empowerment in remote mountain communities, in particularly in Afghanistan. Yet a large part of our ethos is connecting communities and cultures. I have come to realize that being the founder of a non profit and a mountain biker is not necessarily mutually exclusive.

So this trip, I made the decision to lug my trusted steed on the arduous journey from Colorado to Kabul. Mountain to Mountain becoming quite literal as my Niner biked its way through Singlespeed World Championships in Durango, Colorado on a Saturday, only to be packed up, still dirty, to join me on a series of flights to Afghanistan the following week.

It wasn’t intended to be any sort of record creating, being the first at something, kind of excursion. It’s simply a way for me to do what I do, in a country that I love, and perhaps change a few perceptions about what women can and can’t do in the process. After some googling and researching, we discovered that no other woman had done this. Not really surprising as this is Afghanistan we’re talking about. Women don’t ride bikes here. Foreign women try to stay relatively low key. For good reason. Between the land mines, suicide bombers, the Taliban, and the usual crap against women that exists in many Islamic countries, mountain biking isn’t high on anyone’s (male or female) priority list.

I decided to ride my bike in two provinces of Afghanistan, which happen to be two of the provinces that Mountain to Mountain is working in…connecting our mission with our ethos. Education and cultural exchange. Couple that with my desire to break barriers and crack open the long held stereotypes that pigeon hole women in many regions of the world, it was a no brainer. The long term vision being that this trip I challenge perceptions and stereotypes on both sides of the coin.

Westerners assume Afghan men won’t accept women on bikes, because no women do it. Truth, many won’t and don’t. But the majority we encountered not only tolerated it, but chatted with us, joked and supported it.

Afghans expect that Westerners are too scared and too closed off to come out of their NGO and military compounds to interact with them and their country. Westerners (including many that live and work in Afghanistan) assume you’ll be shot dead or kidnapped the moment you leave the confines of your secure car or compound. I try to do my errands on my own whenever possible via walking or motorbike. I walk in the markets, stay in residential neighborhoods, and often conduct my daily errands alone so that I can take the time to connect with shopkeepers and security guards. I buy my naan bread from a local baker round the block, have learned where to buy fresh yogurt measured out into a plastic bag and sold by the weight.

Mountain biking is just another extension of that desire to interact with Afghans more fully by doing what comes naturally.

Now this is not to say, it is without danger, or that all men would tolerate this. There are men, especially in other, more conservative provinces, that wouldn’t. I am fully aware of security concerns and am not ignorant of the risks I take by exposing myself on a bike. I chose and discussed my location choices carefully. Baby steps were taken on remote mountain paths and dirt roads before riding my bike through a village. There are still areas of this country where I couldn’t step out of my car without a burqa on. Areas where foreigners of either sex, are at risk, simply by trying to do their work. Assassinations and kidnappings still occur and foreigners are not trusted. But there are areas where genuine human interaction and cultural exchange are not only possible but desired.

Yet as I’ve said many times before, if no one ever does it, it will never change. Its my own version of: ”Just because that’s the way things are, doesn’t mean its the way they should be.”

photo credit Travis Beard

I found this story at Team M2M

Team M2M was created to support Mountain to Mountain through the pursuit of mountain sports. Mountain biking, trail running, radonnee ski racing, indoor climbing, heck – roadies are allowed to, be it cycling or running! The goal is to raise awareness and funds through taking part in the activities we love best, under the banner of Team M2M.

-link below-

http://teamm2m.wordpress.com/

A Trailside Guide: Women's Mountain Biking

The first guide to this exciting, fast-paced, demanding sport by and for women.

Which manufacturers make bikes and accessories especially for a woman's shorter torso, smaller hands, and narrower hips? How can a woman ensure she's getting the best possible service at a male-oriented bike shop? What exercises can a woman do to improve her upper body strength and thus her ability to enjoy long climbs and challenging trails? How can a woman prevent a sore rear-end on a bumpy ride? These and scores of other questions are answered in Women's Mountain Biking. With enthusiasm enough to infect even the skeptic, Jennifer Kulier shows that mountain biking — including tough, single-track riding — is very much for women too. She inspires and informs novice cyclists and experienced riders alike with this complete guide, providing the latest information on equipment, riding techniques, and safety, as well as practical tips from women mountain bikers that the guys won't know. This once-macho sport is waking up to the power of women, who are joining the ranks of mountain bikers in ever greater numbers. I

link - https://books.wwnorton.com/books/Womens-Mountain-Biking/

Raleigh Alley Way, 2010

Frame> Reynolds 520 Chromo
Fork> 4130 Chromo Cross
Crankset> 2 piece forged steel with external BB and Gates Belt Drive- Chainwheel, 50t
Hubs> (F) Shimano Alfine Dynamo / (R) Shimano Alfine Internal 8- speed
Rims> Weinmann XM260 disc
Tires> Vittoria Rondenour Cross, 700x35c
Brakes> Shimano BR-M416 disc
Saddle> Brooks B17
Price> around $1400.00

$1400.00 seems like a lot at first glance (at least it does to me) but for a bicycle with an 8 speed internal hub Gates belt drive system which despite it's old style classic looks makes this a cutting edge bicycle in every way it's not all that high a price. New tech alway's cost more. I remember when CD players were over $1000.00. Now you can pick one up for $20.00. Someday I believe belt drive systems will be the drive-train of choice on all new bicycles. But until that time you can pick up a part of the future for around $1400.00.

http://www.raleighusa.com/

"Doctor on a bike." via: situpcycle.com

Check out situp cycle.com for this and a number of other very interesting videos and short films on the subject of cycling and the cycling lifestyle. There's also a new interview with Copenhagen Cycle Chic's founder Mikael Colville-Anderson. Great stuff. / Link - http://situp-cycle.com/

Bowery Lane Bicycles

Beautiful, handmade, European style, steel workhorses for around $600.00?

Why... you must be quite mad...

Broncks Black

Broncks Raw

Breukelen

Vintage Inspired Bicycles Made in USA

link - http://www.bowerylanebicycles.com/

Ryan Doyle's Bike Exhibition - Art Basil. Miami, Florida

^ The "Hell-a-Copter" ^

If you're in the Miami area this week don't miss Ryan Doyle's Bike Exhibition. Art Basil at -

*Squisy Universe Gallery from December 3rd-6th, 150 NW 24th Street, Miami FL, 33127.*

link -http://www.bikeclubgames.com/

Art Basil link - http://www.artbaselmiamibeach.com/go/id/ss/lang/eng/

Santa Cruz Superlight 2010, "most effective"

Santa Cruz Superlight R XC 2009: It was Leonardo Da Vinci who once said "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." While bicycles in general are essentially simple devices, those words ring especially true when considering the Superlight. An exercise in minimalism, it offers 100mm of rear wheel travel through a clean single pivot design that has been optimized and refined for more than a decade now. This suspension, one of the most copied in the world, is housed in an elegant and lightweight aluminum chassis that handles with confidence and snap. Sometimes, less really is more.

Eight different build kits. All very reasonably priced.

link - http://www.santacruzmtb.com/home/

Easy Racer Bicycles, "Monster Bike"

"Winter Recumbency"

link - http://www.easyracers.com/

Kona Huma 2010

Frame> Kona Cromoly
Fork> Kona P2
Headset> Ritchey LB Plus
Crankset> 42t chainring, RPM 7420 - bottom bracket
18t freewheel
Hubs> Formula
Rims> Alex Zuma 3.0
Tires> Kenda K-Rad 26x2.3"
Brakes> Tektro 849
Saddle> Velo Classic Cruiser
Price> around $425.00

Comments : FUN

http://www.konaworld.com/index.cfm

Biomega Bicycles, Denmark

Biomega represents a paradigm shift in the way bicycles are conceived. Biomega was the first company to view the bicycle as a lush piece of design—furniture for locomotion—that could also bring about absolute transformation in today’s urban environments. To achieve these goals, Biomega works with the world’s best industrial designers and create head-turning, trend-setting, low-maintenance bikes that defy people’s preconceived notions about transportation. Not only are they pioneers in "New Luxury", but, with groundbreaking innovations: super-plastic forming, shaft transmissions, night glow frames, and dynamic high-stress load bonding, they’re also pioneers in developing the perfect technology to transform urban living.

Check out the Biomega web-site at - http://biomega.dk/biomega.aspx

GT Zaskar 9r Pro, Perfect.

Frame> GT Design 29" Hydroformed Kinesis Superlight Aluminum

Fork> Fox 32 RL, 100 mm

Derailleur's> (F) Shimano XT, (R) Shimano XT Shadow

Rims> Mavic TN-719, 29" / with Shimano XT Centerlock hubs

Price> around $2600.00

Perfection;

1. The quality or condition of being perfect.
2. The act or process of perfecting: Perfection of the invention took years.
3. A person or thing considered to be perfect.
4. An instance of excellence.

link - http://www.gtbicycles.com/usa/eng/

Opus Classico

-Classico-
Frame> 6061 Aluminum
Fork> Ora Cr-Mo
Crankset> PRO-A36, single 36t
Derailleur> Shimano Altus
Hubs> Formula FM 21/32
Rims> Alex DC19
Tires> Cheng Shin Touring C-1447
Saddle> Ora Voyage
Price> around $550.00

OPUS bicycles have quickly established an excellent reputation and following in the Road Bicycle category. They turned their attention to the Urban market and have developed an exceptional value for money bicycle: the Classico

Classic, clean and very comfortable to ride, Opus' Urbanista bicycles take styling inspiration from those elegant bikes of generations past but gives them performance features that today's technology and equipment can provide.

The Opus Bicycle Company

Ville St. Laurent, Quebec, Canada

link - http://www.opusbike.com/site_urbain_10.php?lang=en

Time.

Felt DA-Di2
Dura-Ace

http://www.feltbicycles.com/USA.aspx

Trek TTX 9.9 SSL
SRAM Red

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/

Specialized S-Works Transition
SRAM Red

http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/home.jsp

Neither here nor there but fun to look at just the same.

Bring it !!!

Cyclo-therapy: The kindred relationship between cyclists is usually coupled with a fierce sense of competition. By Simon Usborne

On Sunday mornings all over the country, riders leave disbelieving families in their beds to take a kind of two-wheeled communion. Part of the credo that joins this peculiar congregation requires strangers to doff a helmet or exchange nods or waves. On solo rides, a nod sometimes turns into chat. I usually limit those exchanges to pleasantries, but on a recent morning in Kent, I was picked up by a 50-something Frenchman.

I had been pedalling fast, halfway into a 60-mile circuit through the North Downs of Kent, when a whippet-like man whirred past with enviable souplesse, a blur of Lycra and tanned forearms. He quickly opened a gap but I tried to keep him in sight – at least for as long as I could. We turned out to be following the same route and, as I approached the Pilgrim's Way near Sevenoaks, I saw that he had stopped at a deserted junction.

Preparing to give him the obligatory nod and, feeling relatively friendly, a "Morning!", I realised he was waiting for me. "'Allo," he said as I unclipped a shoe. "If you want, I can show you some 'ills." Some hills? Wow, er, yes, why not? I'll follow you. And so the French guy was off. The lanes too narrow to ride in a pair, I sat on his wheel in a strange silence during which Denis (we did at least introduce ourselves) seemed to be building up speed.

The kindred relationship between cyclists is usually coupled with an unspoken, fierce sense of competition. I got the sense Denis was testing me and a pointless sense of pride wasn't going to let me fail. After half a mile or so, during which my heart rate had already risen, he got out of his saddle and dropped through the gears as he took a sharp left up a steep ribbon of asphalt.

In our only other exchange beyond sharing names, I learned that Denis spends his summers back home, hauling himself up proper hills in the Alps. That and a significant weight advantage left me fighting to stay with him. I managed – just – and, failing to hide my breathlessness at the top, a serene Denis looked at me and said, "Okay. Good. I go zis way. You can go zat way." And that was that – he sprinted south and I plodded home, leaving behind the weird world of road cycling for another weekend. Back in London, the day was just beginning.

s.usborne@independent.co.uk or see independent.co.uk/cyclotherapy

Livestrong fitness tip of the day.

When you set goals and objectives, they give you a clear visualization of your upcoming achievements. Setting goals helps solidify your commitment to your accomplishment.

link - http://www.livestrong.com/

Haro Heartland LTD Comfort Bike

Haro Heartland LTD

Frame> 6061 Aluminum
Fork> SR Suntour NEX-4100, 63mm
Crankset> Shimano M151 28/38/48
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano c051, (R) Shimano Deore
Hubs> Shimano Alivio
Rims> Weinmann ZAC 19, doublewall
Tires> Kenda Keen 1.95"
Brakes> Shimano Alivio
Saddle> Haro Comfort Extra Plush
Price> around $450.00

If your shopping for a solid comfort bike that won't break the $500.00 mark? Stop here. The Haro Heartland LTD is an amazing value. Good crankset, good hubs, good derailleur's, good rims. And all for well under $500.00. Done...

link - http://www.harobikes.com/

Gary Fisher Cobia

Frame> Aluminum

Fork> RockShox Tora SL29, 80mm

Drivetrain> Crankset} Shimano FC-M442 44/32/22
Bottom Brack} Shimano ES25 Octalink
Derailleur's} (F) Deore, (R) SRAM
Hubs} Shimano M475
Cassette} SRAM PG-950 11-34 9speed

Rims> Bontrager Ranger

Tires> Bontrager 29-3, 29x2.0"

Brakes> Avid BB5 Mechanical Disc

Saddle> Bontrager Race

Price> around $1000.00

$1000.00 well spent...

link - http://fisherbikes.com/

GT Peace 9'r

Frame> GT Triple Triangle 29", Reynolds 520
Fork> GT 4130 cr-mo rigid XC
Crankset> Truvativ Blaze, 32t single ring, (18t cog)
Rims> WTB Speed Disc All Mtn., 29"
Hubs> alloy disc, sealed
Tires> WTB Wolverine, 29x2.2"
Brakes Tektro, Aquila mechanical disc
Saddle> WTB Pure V Race
Price> around $700.00

I had the chance to ride one of these bikes a couple weeks ago. The best way to express my experience on the GT Peace 29'r is to say my "fun level" went from 0 to 60 in about 2.2 seconds... The fit and finish on this bike is perfect and the gear ratio made me feel like I was twenty years younger. I must say I was flat ground that day so a couple of big hills might have made me feel twenty years older... This bike is the perfect example of what it was designed to be. A well built, solid, single speed 29er with great components and a price that makes you think everyday is "black Friday"...

link - http://www.gtbicycles.com/usa/eng/

Cannondale Bad Boy Series

-Bad Boy-
Frame> Bad Boy, 6061 alloy, Urban 700c
Fork> Fatty Rigid
Crankset> FSA Bad Boy 48/38/28
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Acera, (R) Shimano Alivio
Hubs> (F) Formula OV31, (R) Shimano RM-30
Rims> C3 Urban
Tires> Schwalbe Kojak, 700x28c Bad Boy
Brakes> Tektro V-brakes
Saddle> Bad Boy Custom
Price> around $725.00

-Bad Boy Disc-
Frame> Bad Boy, 6061 alloy, Urban 700c
Fork> Fatty Solo Rigid
Crankset> FSA Bad Boy 48/38/26
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Deore, (R) Shimano Deore
Hubs> (F) Lefty SL, (R) Shimano RM-30
Rims> C3 Urban
Tires> Schwalbe Kojak, 700x28c Bad Boy
Brakes> Tektro Auriga Comp
Saddle> Bad Boy Custom
Price> around $1000.00

-Bad Boy Solo-
Frame> Bad Boy Caffeine, MTB, 6061 alloy
Fork> Fatty Solo DL50 Urban, w/lockout
Crankset> FSA Bad Boy 48/36/26, 9 speed
Derailleur's> (F) SRAM X-7, (R) SRAM X-7
Hubs> (F) Cannondale Lefty SL, (R) Formula DC22
Rims> Jalco SR300 Disc
Tires> Schwalbe Kojak, 700x28c Bad Boy
Brakes> Avid Juicy 3
Saddle> Bad Boy Custom
Price> around $1500.00

The Cannondale Bad Boy series exemplifies why cycling is as exciting today as it's ever been. These urban warriors with the Cannondale "matte-black" finish, fit the special needs of city and rural road riders who use their bikes to do anything and everything on an everyday basis. Cannondale is also working on the release of their new "Simon" computer controlled suspension system. Read more about Simon at - http://www3.cannondale.com/bikes/

S. Monkey

Carter & Carr's Moab trip #1

Carter & Carr's Moab trip #2

Happy Thanksgiving !

Another inner city bike by J. Ruiter

http://www.jruiter.com/jruiter/inner-city-bike.php

The beginnings of mountain biking as we know it.

Otis Guy

Charlie Kelly

Joe Breeze

Gary Fisher

Gary Klein

Toni Maier Moussa

Keith Bontrager

Georgena Terry

Jim Gentes

Gary Helfrich

Paul Turner

For the entire story go to - http://outside.away.com/outside/gear/200204/200204_all_aboard.html

*For more on the history of mountain biking check out the film "Klunkerz".

Available on DVD at http://www.klunkerz.com/

Jeff and his 4 legged companion's vision of weekends to come...

Yes that's a dog carrier on the front of Jeff's trailer.

Note: Jeff's dog is currently in the K-9 witness protection program so his name and photo have been withheld...

Trek 6000, 2010

Frame> Alpha Black Aluminum
Fork> RockShox Dart3
Crankset> Shimano M442 44/32/22
Derailleur's> (F) SRAM X.5, (R) SRAM X.5
Hubs> Shimano M475-L
Rims> Bontrager Ranger
Tires> Bontrager Jones> 26x2.25" front / 26x2.20" rear
Brakes> Avid BB mechanical disc
Saddle> Bontrager Race
Price> $800.00

In my opinion the 6000 is probably the hardest to break, $800.00 bicycle in the world. "Drop out of an air plane tough"

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/

Serotta TiMax

Serotta is an American bicycle builder located in Saratoga Springs, New York. Named for founder Ben Serotta, the company has been making custom road and competition bicycles since the 1970s.

link - http://www.serotta.com/

link - http://www.co-motion.com/index.html

GT Force 3.0 (All Mountain)

Frame> GT Designed 6061 Monocoque
Fork> SR Mag 32, 140mm / Rear Shock> Fox Float R Shock
Crankset> Shimano Deore FC-M590 Hollowtech II
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Deore, (R) Shimano Deore SLX Shadow
Hubs> (F) GT 15mm thru axle, sealed bearing, (R) Shimano 6 bolt
Rims> WTB SX-24
Tires> Kenda Nevegal 26x2.3 / 26x2.0" rear
Brakes Tektro Aurigo Pro Hydraulic disc
Saddle> WTB Pure V
Price> around $1700.00

http://www.gtbicycles.com/usa/eng/

Indianapolis man shuns family car for bicycle

Rain or shine, rider uses bike to get wherever he needs to go

By Daniel Lee
daniel.lee@indystar.com

Steve Allen opens his garage door at his Northside Indianapolis house just before sunrise and prepares for one of those rituals of parenthood: taking his 6-year-old daughter, Emma, to school.

Only this is a morning commute with a two-wheeled twist.

Allen uses a bicycle -- actually one of his five bicycles -- for almost all of his daily transportation needs. He rides year-round in rain or snow, hot or cold.

Emma, dressed in her plaid-skirt school uniform, straps on her helmet and hops into the back of a yellow bike trailer. Allen, donning his own helmet, covers her with a blanket to guard from the morning chill and then mounts his Bianchi bicycle.

Allen, his bike and trailer shine and blink with a half-dozen lights and blinkers. "It looks like a Mardi Gras float," he quipped.

Plenty of people already crisscross Indianapolis by bike, including urban hipsters delivering sandwiches aboard single-speed bikes Downtown and office workers heading to the Monon Trail for a weekend workout.

Yet few pedal with the zeal of Allen, who among the local cycling community is better known as "Tool" -- a moniker he picked up two decades ago from co-workers when he was a rookie waiter battling for his share of tables at St. Elmo Steak House.

Allen, a 44-year-old ex-Marine with an affinity for punk rock, is a hard-core cyclist who typically rides 150 to 200 miles a week on daily errands and to his job as a waiter at St. Elmo Steakhouse.

He estimates he saves $12,000 a year on car insurance, gasoline, car payments and parking by living a close-to-carless lifestyle. His wife, Kellie, has a 2010 Subaru Outback, a vehicle Allen says he usually only drives or rides in when he's with his wife or whole family.

The benefits are not just financial. Allen said cycling for transportation keeps his energy levels high and allows him the luxury of not counting calories.

"I'd rather start the day like that than sitting in the car cussing at my dashboard," he said.

On a recent morning, Allen covered the roughly 6 miles from his home near Downtown to his daughter's school on the Northside in roughly 25 minutes -- roughly the time a motorist may allot for such a trip during the morning rush hour.

He pedals, trailer in tow, at a 12 to 15 mph pace -- the speed limit Allen deems safest with the children's trailer -- navigating side streets until he reaches the nearly empty Monon Trail.

Those at Emma's school have gotten used to her arriving by bike trailer. "I've heard some people refer to it as her chariot," Kellie Allen said.

Bicycle experts and advocates point to people such as Allen as an example of just how many of life's tasks can be accomplished without that staple of American life: the automobile. Bike advocates have touted cycling as part of the solution to lessening traffic congestion and creating more vibrant communities.

"In most American cities, it is still pretty difficult to live without a car for most people," said Jeff Mapes, author of the book "Pedaling Revolution: How Cyclists are Changing American Cities."

Yet Mapes -- a cycling commuter who works as a reporter for the Oregonian newspaper in Portland, Ore. -- also points to what he calls a quiet cycling subculture of people trading in cars for bikes.

For his book, Mapes visited with cycling commuters in communities stretching from Marin County in California to New York City to Amsterdam.

"It gave me a new sense of what you could do," said Mapes, whose family has downgraded to one car from two.

Indianapolis has received some recognition for its cycling initiatives. The League of American Bicycles, a Washington-based advocacy group, recently recognized Indianapolis as a "bronze" level Bicycle Friendly Community. Bloomington and Carmel also were "bronze" cities -- the group's fourth level of recognition of bike friendliness.

The group looks for factors such as what resources have been dedicated to encourage cycling and what efforts have been made to educate cyclists and motorists.

In Indianapolis, bicycles accounted for just 0.3 percent of commutes in 2008, according to data tracked by the League of American Bicycles.

Though still small, the number of bicycle commutes in Indianapolis has increased 41 percent since 2000. Nationally, bicycles accounted for 0.55 percent of commutes.

While riding, Allen likens himself to a herding dog with traffic serving as two-ton steel-enchased sheep: He's always scanning roads and intersections to be proactive in how his bike flows with traffic.

His bike is outfitted with a Garmin GPS device. He wears special water-resistant cycling knickers and carries a 25-pound messenger bag full of spare bike gear and clothes.

"When you see him, he looks like a Special Forces guy on a bike," said Christopher Newgent, a 26-year-old Indianapolis cyclist who co-founded theindycog.com bike blog.

Allen said he's particularly careful at stoplights because intersections are one of the most hazardous spots for cyclists.

He said the most dangerous time is when a light first turns green because traffic could be coming from just about any direction: A motorists may be making a quick left turn or trying to sneak through the light from the other direction as it turns red. When with his kids, he tries to stick to the Monon Trail and side streets.

"I'm on a 20-pound bike, and you're in a 21/2-ton car," Allen said. "I'm going to do the safest thing for me."

Allen has had crashes and run-ins with angry motorists. On the morning of Oct. 30, he received a ticket from Indianapolis metro police for riding on the Monon between dusk and dawn -- although police rescinded tickets given to Allen and other bike commuters after protests from local bike advocates.

After dropping Emma off at school on this recent day, Allen heads to Monon Coffee Co. for coffee -- a caffeine refueling stop. Then it's off to Fresh Market in Broad Ripple for groceries: yogurt, grapes and bananas.

Bicycling has been a constant for Allen. As the teenage son of a Coast Guard officer, he attended three high schools, two in California and Manual in Indianapolis. He's raced road and mountain bikes.

But after all his years of riding, Allen said he still enjoys a sense of achievement from navigating a car-crazy society on his bike.

"When I get to work," Allen said, "I'm so stoned on endorphins, I feel like I could be the best waiter in the world."

Bianchi - Mid-level biciclette entry montagna.

DOSS 5100
Frame> Bianchi DOSS aluminum
Fork> Suntour SF9-XCT, 100mm
Crankset> FSA A-Drive XC, 42/32/22
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano C-050, (R) Shimano Deore
Hubs> (F) Shimano HB-RM65, (R) Shimano FH-RM65
Rims> Mach1 Sub-Zero disc
Tires> Hutchinson Python 26x2"
Brakes> Shimano Alivio BR-M416, mechanical disc
Saddle> Bianchi Race
Price> around $525.00

DOSS 5200
Frame> Bianchi DOSS aluminum
Fork> Suntour SF9-XCT V2 MLO, 100mm
Crankset> FSA DynaDrive, 42/32/22
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Alivio, (R) Shimano Deore
Hubs> (F) Shimano HB-RM65, (R) Shimano FH-RM65
Rims> Mach1 MX disc
Tires> Hutchinson Python 26x2"
Brakes> Shimano BRM486, hydraulic disc
Saddle> Bianchi Race
Price> around $650.00

Queste biciclette mountain dal vecchio paese vi terrà miglia avanti rispetto ai vostri nemici famiglie. Supponendo che la loro non anche su Bianchi.

link- http://www.bianchiusa.com/

S. Monkey

Screaming Monkey RV

2010 Giant Rincon ("old paint")

Frame> Aluxx-Grade Butted Aluminum
Fork> SR XCM, 100mm
Crankset> SR XCT, 22/32/42
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano M310, (R) Shimano Alivio
Hubs> Alloy
Rims> Alloy, double wall - note: Although these are basic Giant MTB rims they're tough as nails.
Tires> Kenda Nevegal, 26x2.1 on black bike / Kenda Small Block 8, 26x2.1" on Satin Silver bike
Brakes> Tektro Disc, mechanical
Saddle> Giant Sport MTB
Price> around $500.00

Gaint Rincon W

It seems like when ever I here about someone having an old mountain bike sitting in his-

or her garage it more times than not turns out to be a Rincon. Thus making it the "old paint" in the world of mountain bikes.

S. Monkey

http://www2.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/

Specialized Hardrock / Rockhopper 29er's

-Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc 29-

Frame> Specialized A1 Aluminum
Fork> SR SunTour SF10-NVX-MLO-700c-80, 80mm
Crankset> SR SunTour, Octalink spline
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Altus, (R) SRAM X-4
Hubs> Forged alloy, double sealed
Rims> Alex RHD, 29", double wall
Tires> Specialized Fast Trak LK Sport 29x2.0"
Brakes> Avid BB5, mechanical disc
Saddle> Specialized XC
Price> around $600.00

-Specialized Rockhopper Exper 29-

Frame> Specialized M4, alloy
Fork> RockShox Dart3 SL, 80mm
Crankset> Shimano FC M442, Octalink spline
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Deore, (R) SRAM X-5
Hubs> Forged alloy, double sealed
Rims> Alex RHD, 29" doublewall
Tires> Specialized Fast Trak LK Sport 29x2.0"
Brakes> Tektro Auriga Comp, hydraulic disc
Saddle> Specialized Rockhopper XC
Price> around $900.00

link - http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/home.jsp

Pacific Cycle - IF Folding Bicycles

-IF Mode-
Frame> Pacific AL7005 IF Monocoque Frame
Fork> Pacific AL 7005 single arm
Chainwheel> Speed Drive Dual Speed System
Freewheel> 12t sprocket
Derailleur's Speed Drive Dual Speed System
Hubs> KT sealed bearings
Rims> Alloy 6061-T6
Tires> Kenda Kwick Roller Sport 26x1.5"
Brakes> Mechanical Disc
Saddle> Velo VL-2064

The clean and striking IF Mode is aimed at commuters of the mobile generation who, until now, may have not considered cycling or folding bikes to be an option. IF Mode is a unique product that offers a new image for people who previously thought bikes were for enthusiasts only.

IF Mode avoids oily chains, complex tube with hidden dirt traps and the clutter of traditional bicycle features. It can be used by city commuters who do not want to change their appearance into ‘bicycle warriors’ and may use public transport or their car for some of the journey. IF Mode looks at home folded up on a smart subway train or in an office, just like a sleek mp3 player or other well designed accessory in your life. It also performs on the street like any lightweight well balanced full size bike.

IF Mode has won 2008 Eurobike Award, iF Product Design 2009 Gold Award, and Taiwan Excellence Silver Award.

**********************************************************************************

-IF Urban 26-

Frame> Pacific AL7005 Rigid with IF folding mechanism

Fork> Pacific AL7005 Rigid with Cr-Mo threadless steerer
Chainwheel> Drive Line 50/34t
Derailleur's> (F) SRAM Rival, (R) SRAM X-5
Hubs> Formula Alloy disc
Rims> Alex EN24 SSE
Tires> Kenda Kwick Roller Sport 26x1.5"
Brakes> Mechanical Disc
Saddle> Velo 2064

Aimed especially at riders who prefer a conventional frame, wheel size and appearance, with the feel and performance of a typical hybrid bike. A compact folding bike for people who prefer large 26” wheels.

link - http://www.pacific-cycles.com/

You!

You have one life. Live it.

CADBURY DELIVERS 5,000 BICYCLES TO GHANA, AFRICA

Cadbury Canada announced this week the delivery of 5,000 bikes to children in Ghana, Africa as part of its innovative consumer promotion called The Bicycle Factory. The bikes will reach more than 200 communities in central and southern Ghana and will provide access to education to thousands of kids who would normally be at risk of not going to school.

http://www.bikerumor.com/2009/11/08/cadbury-delivers-5000-bicycles-to-ghana-africa/

Marin Muirwood 29er

Frame> Double butted Cromoly
Fork> Cromoly rigid
Crankset> TruVativ X-Flow C 3.0, 48/38/28
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano, (R) Shimano Deore
Hubs> Alloy double wall
Rims> Alex TD-20, double wall
Tires> Continental Town Ride 29x1.6"
Saddle> WTB Vigo Sport
Price> about $645.00

Note: I think if I were the "King of all Bicycles" I would outfit my kingdom with Marin Muirwood 29er's then send out the masses to free the world of all the evil doers who drive Cadillac and Lincoln pick-up trucks...

S. Monkey

link - http://www.marinbikes.com/2010/index.php

Felt F95 Team, Budget speed...

Frame> Felt Custom butted F-Lite 7005 aluminum
Fork> Felt Carbon
Crankset> FSA Tempo, 3pc., aluminum 50/34t
Cassette> Sunrace R90-series 9-speed, 11/25t
Derailleur's> (F) Shimano Sora, (R) Shimano Tiagra
Hubs> Felt sealed aluminum
Rims> Alex R500
Tires> Vittoria Zaffiro 700x23c
Saddle> Felt 1.3 Road Saddle
Weight> 19.78lbs
Price> under $800.00

http://www.feltbicycles.com/USA/2010-Product-Catalog/Road/F-Series/F95-Team.aspx

John Carr and Jeff Carter's trip to Moab. #1

John Carr and Jeff Carter's trip to Moab. #2

Yike Bike

I usually don't do many post on electric bikes but I couldn't resist with the Yike Bike. It weighs 22lbs. or 10kg. It will carry up to 220lbs or 100kg. It has a top speed of about 20kph or 12.4mph and only takes about 20 minutes for an 80% charge. The only draw back may be the distance it will travel on one charge, about 8 miles or 9-10 km. One heck of a toy though...

YikeBike Limited

New Zealand

http://www.yikebike.com/site/home