The buzz word for 2013 could very well be “upcycling,” a term we first heard last year. Instead of scrapping old materials to make new, upcycling efforts build new products with the old and save the process of using energy to recreate a fresh material.
We recently came across such a venture in Toronto, where Friends of 2 Wheels looks to recycle used bikes, repair used bikes and refurbish donated bikes and even upcycles new bikes from what otherwise might go in the landfill. This not-for-profit business even uses the sales of bikes to cover the cost of new bike parts and equipment. The company even offers bicycles for those in need, helping to change one life at a time. We think of this as the “cycle of life.”
Strider Sports has made a name for itself with its 12-inch, no-pedal balance bikes for young riders. For those slightly larger kids the 12-inch wheels were a little on the small size, so the company has rolled out the new Strider Super 16, which features 16-inch wheels, larger footrests and even a caliper handbrake. The bike still lacks pedals as it is just a balance bike allowing kids to roll before the ride!
GoPro has announced that it has become a title sponsor for the Vail Valley Foundation’s extremely popular Mountain Games, a celebration of mountain sport, lifestyle and music. The GoPro Mountain Games will be held June 6-9, and will see athletes from around the world compete in nine sports and 25 disciplines including running, cycling, climbing, rafting and slacklining. We’re sure this year will see GoPro provide even more ways for athletes to share the experience with the world.
By the time most of us move from the Big Wheel to a real bicycle we tend not to look back. But Joe Hadzicki and his son Tyler have looked to create a grown up trike, and the result is the ONDA Cycle.
Those looking to create their own semi-custom fitness apparel can turn to their iPad, as clothing maker Mt. Borah has released an app for the Apple tablet. This free app allows users to specify color variations on tops and bottoms and chose upgrade options such as fabrics and pads, and then send it off to Mt. Borah for a price quote.
Not everyone likes cycling in skin tight apparel. For more casual riding Zoic has you covered with its Men’s X Shorts for 2013. These provide a loose, lightweight fit, while the quick-drying 4-way stretch fabric will still keep you covered and dry. These feature a 14-inch inseam that is designed to fall below the knees, while the relaxed casual style will look good on and off the bike.
Mission Workshop’s is on a mission to provide quality bags for commuter cyclists and the latest result is the Advanced Projects edition, which is made in America and features a waterproof waxed canvas construction. The bag further features the company’s Arkiv closure system and VX liner to ensure that items inside stay dry and protect during the commute year round.
Downhill riding is a very different sport than cross country mountain biking, and for those who look to post serious times need a serious pedal. Fortunately Crankbrothers has a pedal that let riders chop down while descending. The Mallet DH/Race pedals were used by the pros last year and is making its way to the general market.
Do pro cyclists “commute” to work? We’re not really sure but the BMC Racing Team has been “outfitted” with a new line of BMC commuter bikes, fitted with Gates belt-drive drivetrains. The new Urban Challenge line will reportedly be on the team trucks this season – which could indicate that the bikes could debut for the rest of us this fall.
When riding to work you don’t need a wingman to watch the road, but the Wingman travel bag from Henty might be just the thing so you can show up at your desk looking smart and ready for business. This multi-purpose bag enables easy and versatile all weather commuting and travel for active business men and women.