Bicycle helmet maker Limar knows that while one helmet may be used for various riding – commuting during the week, casual rides on the weekend – one size doesn’t fit all, nor does one helmet style. A helmet that is comfortable in the summer isn’t so good in the cool spring with wind and mist.
Of course not everyone wants multiple helmets. The new Velov helmet clearly is aimed to solve some of those issues, as it offers panels that can add some warmth and even protection from the elements. Not a bad solution for those who don’t need a collection of helmets.
The Artcrank Shop Bike from Handsome doesn’t just look good; it can do some good as well. This limited edition single speed is being used as a fundraiser for World Bicycle Relief. Each purchase of the bicycle will help provide a full bike to a community in Africa, while each Artcrank frame will provide a mechanic’s tool kit to a community as well.
We have seen quite a few desk-based fitness solutions that incorporate a treadmill or cycle trainer in the mix. We know it is good to keep fit and that too much sitting isn’t good for you, which is why Professor Jim Martin, a specialist in exercise science at the University of Utah, has created the Active Desk. He is currently trying to launch his project through the crowd sourcing site Rocket Hub.
Sometimes we see things and wonder if there is really a need. In the case of the Invisible Bike, which was designed by creator Jimmy Kuehnie, we almost didn’t see it. While not technically invisible, the bike is made of transparent “bullet proof glass.” Only the chains, bearings, and wheels can actually be seen.
Bicycle chains have seen competition from beltdrives but keep on turning. It isn’t likely we’ll get off the chain gang anytime soon, but possibly the biggest annoying part of the chain might be slowly fading away. That is the greasy, dirty mess than most bike chains become almost immediately.
We’ve seen a few wooden bikes over the years, but the Connor Wood Bikes are ones that could really turn heads. Produced in Denver, these American made bicycles feature frames made of steam bent, hand-sculpted, Kevlar reinforced ash and walnut. The bikes are coated with marine spar varnish to protect them from the elements. Two models are now available – including the Scorcher and Cruister – and both feature 29er wheels that let riders head through the woods on wooden bikes.
From a company like Shinola we’d expect a shinny bike and they didn’t let us down. The Detroit revival company that is known for its quality watches has also taken pride in making quality bicycles. To commemorate its new business the company has introduced a one-off, brass-plated work of art. The Runwell frame was built at the Waterford Precision Cycles in Wisconsin and then brass plated in Detroit. While it isn’t for sale it shows that the company truly knows style.
Bicycle saddle maker Fizik has added some new colors for this season, and it has us thinking someone listening to too much music from the 1980s. The Highlighter Collection features saddles with just a touch of fluorescent pink, green, orange and yellow. Fizik’s Versus, Gobi XM and Vesta saddles will be available in the new colors.
There are plenty of wrenches on the market, but this one is reportedly designed for “bike nuts.” The Nutter, which is being developed as a Kickstarter project, is aimed to put all the essential tools for fixing most common bike problems, making it the one tool commuters shouldn’t leave home without.
While Amsterdam could arguably be the cycling capital of Europe the Mayor of London looks to develop a new €1 billion master bike plan aimed at revitalizing urban cycling. This plan backs Dutch style infrastructure with a strong commitment towards better cycling routes, traffic restrictions and even so-called “Little Holland” style developments. This is just some of what could occur via a 10-year plan that could see the majority of the new infrastructure built within the first four years.
The largest bicycle trade show in North America is apparently up for sale. Nielsen Expositions, the company which produces Interbike and other trade events, is looking for a buyer. Other shows include ASD, the Hospitality Design Expo (HD Expo), the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), as well as the Outdoor Retailer Summer and Winter Markets. What this means for the future of the show isn’t clear. We’ll be sure to follow this story as it develops.
Spring is around the corner but that doesn’t mean it will be warm and sunny right away. No, we’ll have to deal with those “warmer” days – which could still mean rides in the 40s (or worse). If you’re itching to get out on the road instead of back on the trainer just bundle up a bit.