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Bike Touring Veteran honors September 11th, his mother's birthday, by Rideon

9/11/2013

Picture bike shop with bike touring products

September 11th, very difficult day for most Americans to remember. If your birthday is on September 11th, well that just sucks.
So due in no effort on my part whatsoever, as a veteran bike touring person and Coast Guard Veteran I have met so many folks from different parts of the world who have helped me keep on keepin' on.
Folks who have helped me to keep my chin up when times were very bleak and who have been and are still there for me when I feel lost. We veteran bike tourers, some who have traveled the world, others residing in countries throughout the world share a beautiful, simple idea that we all agree on and appreciate. Bike Travel, and we find friends, brothers and sisters where ever we travel to. Perhaps one of the reasons there is an Illustrated History of the Bike as "The Noblest Invention".
Happy Birthday Mom
Cheers!

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To Wear a Bike Helmet or not to Wear a Bike Helmet? by Rideon

9/3/2013

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Wear a Bike Helmet as a Fashion Statement

Picture of old guy wearing bike helmet naked

Well, he is wearing a helmet

As I blogged for a product review today regarding the Bell Metro being replaced by the Bell Muni I came upon an article from bike touring buddy Darren Alfe's article Click Here to Read the article with comments.

I don't get caught up in these types of "debates" so if I have any regular readers of this blog out there (since I don't currently have a mailing list or subscription form) y'all might get a decent chuckle from my response. It is Included here:

Well, as soon as I saw this as a topic I knew (and you did too) that there would be all kinds of “reaction” to whether or not to wear a helmet. So making my point here of “reactions”. I was a person who only wore my helmet while sliding and picking my way down steep icy roads while winter commuting in Colorado. Later when I moved to New Mexico I encountered what I would define as ‘insane people” that is those folks would throw full cans of beer, soda, etc. while I was riding my bike. Whatever, I got a helmet (Bell Metro) glad I did as later I was unavoidably hit by a car and I wasn’t hurt physically although I was quite upset at listening to the cackling laughter. All cars around stopped at the loud thud except the car that hit me. Glad I had my helmet on.
Years later I took my bike through New Mexico, Colorado and Oregon. I encountered many climate changes and was glad to have a versatile “bike hat” as the accessories for the Bell Metro with winter liner, snap on rain shield, ear muffs that permit safe hearing and visor mirror kept me safe and warm or cool even. I have found that my helmet works very well in hot riding conditions as the vents channel a nice breeze and color choice (titanium) helps deflect heat. A guy in Oregon used to wear nothing but baseball caps and after several years of that he got skin cancer on his hears from sun exposure. In Oregon!! where it rains all the time, hmm go figure. Any how, salty bike touring experts like to travel light and keep it simple, while packing for a tour how many hats to you want to pack? I packed four with one. Pretty cool as I would work on my self esteem sitting outside a coffee shop or pub with my “bike hat” on declaring silently to myself “that’s right I’m a bike dude, see the hat? I make this thing look good.” Hmm, not sure I ever bought into that one but nonetheless the helmet can keep me looking good. Cheers! My friends to riding safely and swiftly helmet or not just don’t get hot headed over it and “you can keep your hat on”. Invited to a nudist birthday party, consider wearing nothing but your favorite bike helmet.
Here’s a fun link to Joe Cocker’s “Leave your Hat on” with typo “You can leave your head on”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFso6brN-FI

visit http://www.biketourings.com

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Bell Muni replacing Bell Metro Helmet? Not me. by Rideon

9/3/2013

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Bicycle Commuting Winter Helmet Accessories

Picture of bike helmet for bike touring and commuting with accessories

'05 Bell Metro with mirror, rain shield and winter kit

I'm one of many folks who feel bike helmets are (for the most part) ugly. Many style changes have been introduced particularly when it comes to commuting. Seems to me there's been more focus on form rather than function in some of the new helmet designs for bike commuting as they lack sufficient venting for warm weather riding. Turns out that the trend of this style serves a practical matter as the rounded back portion of the helmet has been proven to be much safer for cyclists.
Approximately ten years ago I purchased a titanium colored Bell Metro in size medium and is a wonderfully cozy helmet in both style and with accessory functionality. Form and function proved to be implemented in a very practical manner.
Photo here is of my '05 Bell Metro with flip mirror on visor, totally waterproof snap on rain shield, winter liner and ear muffs. Rode with this in hundred plus weather and my helmet proved to have just enough vents and the titanium color works well to deflect heat.
If you're an owner of one of these gems of a helmet you can still purchase the foam rubber Winter Kit that fits into the air vents for warmth. The ear muffs that slide on to the helmet strap is such a nice design in that while providing ample ear warmth on cold frigid days, it does not impair hearing for safe commuting. There are varying opinions on the visor mirror, or flip mirror but I like it just fine. Have been able to position the mirror so when I ride my touring bike whether I'm on the brake hoods or the drops I can safely see behind me well enough for "quick checks". Compatible with the Bell Muni. The Muni is very similar in style but does not offer the full line of accessories as the Metro. A quality helmet for nice fit and comfort comes in different sizes rather than one size fits all found in department stores and such.

Picture of Bell Muni Bike Commuter Helmet

CLICK IMAGE FOR INFORMATION OR PURCHASE

Bell Muni pictured at left is a quality commuter helmet with added rear lighting (see photo below) and comes in variety of colors for additional visibility and safety. The Muni is also made with a nice sizing chart rather than one size fits all.
Although the Muni comes with built in rear light some folks don't feel they're bright enough and so order the Blackburn Flea 2.0 front and rear helmet lights, which can be charged via a USB cable. Very convenient for the office.
For a review of someone who's purchased their own set up of this combo visit the Fat Cycle Rider for more information.
As for me I'm keeping my ol' Bell Metro, Cheers to Safe Riding and quality head protection. For other bicycle light needs for your winter bike commute, here's a link for more information at another post.Bicycle Lights for Bike Touring and Commuting.
Your friend, Rideon

Picture of bike commuter wearing helmet for bicycle commuting

CLICK FOR INFORMATION OR PURCHASE

Bell Metro Winter Kit

Bell Muni Helmet

Winter Helmet Cover

Showers Pass Helmet Cover

Due to the Bell Metro winter kit selling out, consider this quality winter helmet cover for bicycle commuting this winter. Available in Black and Yellow.

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Two Wheeled Croozer Bike Trailer from Nashbar, by Rideon

9/3/2013

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CLICK PHOTO FOR INFO OR PURCHASE

It has been brought to my attention that the nashbar cargo trailer 2 appears to be discontinued and is not available for purchase at this time.
What is available is the Croozer Cargo Trailer a two wheeled model that is being very well reviewed at the price of $179.99,

Seems pretty versatile as it folds down for easy storage and can be used as a hand cart for moving lawn debris, etc.

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Jenson USA Sales Events, Get your BicycleTouring, Commuting needs and wishes fulfilled. by Rideon

8/29/2013

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Jenson USA Sales Events, Best Prices, Fast Shipping, Excellent Service

Picture of expedition touring mountain bike dubbed the Rigamaroll

Affectionately dubbed the "Rigamaroll" a cool name for bike blogger's bike.

Hi Everyone
One of the managers at Jenson USA dropped me a note to keep me informed of the excellent bargains that can be had.
"Labor Day Clearance Sale is in full swing and I wanted to throw some popular items and deals at you. Bike sales have been going so well at Jenson that the bike builders are having to work real hard to keep up with the demand".

I know what I will be doing tonight, ordering parts for my own bike build(s). For example I am going to order a set of Maxxis Larsen 2.35 tires for my mountain bike that I use for some bike commuting, photography and is a fun expedition mountain bike touring build. Also looking forward to the versatility I know the tire will provide on varying terrain. At 61% off of retail, yes indeed, just an example of some of the special sales prices available during the annual Labor Day Sales Event. Click on the banner ad below to take advantage of some ridiculously low prices.
Cheers!
P.S. Look forward to reviewing the tires for another "blog about"

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Touring Bikes that cost less than $1,000. by Rideon

8/26/2013

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Updated List of Affordable Quality Touring Bikes

Since my original post last August I have added the Novara Safari to the list as the GT model is currently unavailable. Another bike we like is the Fitwell Bicycle Company's Fahrlander 1 and Fahrlander II. Though the Fahrlander II is slightly more than a thousand bucks, the Fahrlander 1 is a few bucks less so it balances out. Here's a link regarding Fitwell Touring Bikes.

A brief summary of four quality touring bikes for under $1,000 with specification overview of each. These are bikes with steel frames worthy of upgrades or changing out components to suit one's needs. GT Peace Tour offers disc brake and is soon to be discontinued but is still available for purchase at this time. Relaxed frame geometry, long wheelbase and designed for comfortable sturdy, loaded touring rides are all shared qualities of bikes listed in this article. With exception of the GT Peace Tour, these bikes include a quality rear rack built with three rack stays for heavier loads. As all four bikes listed routinely sell new at six or seven hundred dollars any upgrades or add ons to personalize for one's needs still keep the price under a thousand dollars. Enjoy.

GT Wheels4Life Peace Tour Commuter Bike -- Performance Exclusive

GT Peace Tour

GT Peace Tour, Click on link provided above for information or purchase.
A frame made of legendary Reynolds 520 tubing, Schwalbe Delta Cruiser 700 x 35c tires with puncture protection, 27 speed drivetrain, bar end shifters which are very nice when wanting to add a bar bag and not have the shifters interfered with. Alex double wall trekking rims and sealed hub wheelset. 4130 cr-mo touring fork with rack and fender braze ons and is the only bike shown here with fenders included and a threadless stem. Yet, is also the only bike in this list not sold with rear rack included.

Proceeds from the sale of each bike will help Wheels4Life continue to provide low-cost bikes to individuals in developing countries who need transportation for getting to school or work, or for accessing health care.

Always feels nice to support a good cause.

Windsor Tourist

Windsor Tourist
Another nice bike for the money, I just don't care for the way it is geared. Rear cassette is 11-32 and Truvativ Crankset is 30,42,52 rings combine for something I wouldn't want to pedal a load up a hill with. Tiagra 27 speed drivetrain with Deore rear derailleur and Sora front is good stuff. Easy to replace quill stem and price of approximately $150 to $200 less than the other bikes of this list allowing room for upgrades and such. One of two frames listed here with braze on spare double spoke holder on left chainstay. Nice.

Motobecane Gran Turismo

Motobecane Gran Turismo
Hand built stress relieved wheels from Vuelta come with a very nice warranty here's link for details Vuelta Wheel Warranty. This is another quality 4130 cro moly frame with double spare spoke holder brazed to chainstay. Only thing I don't like about this bike is it's not made in a 56cm frame size, offering 54 and 58cm as well as other frame sizes of course. What I do like is this bike offers the best fork of this list in a quality brazed crown fork. Unlike the oval steel forks on the other bikes of this list.

Picture of touring bike Nashbar steel frame touring bike

Nashbar TR1 Touring Bike

Nashbar TR1 Touring Bike: "Bike commuting, touring or spinning along the greenway, this road bike does it all. It's designed to be comfortable and efficient during long-range bike trips, and it's built with durability in mind to handle the extra cargo".
Shifters and derailleurs are the solid and dependable Shimano 105, quality chromoly steel frame, double wall rims and 36 spokes front and rear, the more the merrier for touring. Quill stem for easy single through bolt height adjustment and two bolt plate design for easy replacement of stem if desired. This is a popular bike and size availability fluctuates so if you see your size available get one.
Not geared well for loaded touring of long steep hills, and suggest investing in upgrading wheels for touring. As a bike for commuting of relatively smooth roads this bike is a good value. Price of this bike permits upgrades and still keeps price under a grand.
Click on photo or link provided for information or purchase.

Novara Safari Touring Bike from REI

Novara Safari available at REI is a versatile, fairly popular touring bike that has been around for several years. Made from Reynolds 520 Steel Tubing makes for a long lasting comfortable ride, multiple position trekking style handlebars, solid rear rack and 27 speed drivetrain.

Disc brake compatible frame and fork with mid fork eyelets for ease of front rack installation. Specifications are subject to change as far as component groups are concerned. Click image or link provided for more information.

Note: A suggestive tip for purchasing bikes via the internet as frame size doesn't necessarily determine stand over height. If the stand over height is not indicated contact customer support before purchasing. With known stand over height, measure your inseam with your riding shoes on to determine at least one inch of stand over clearance, two or more inches if you prefer or if you're 5' 10" or more. A simple suggestion for online shopping of bike purchases.
Cheers!

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GT Wheels4Life Peace Tour Commuter Bike, Limited Edition by Rideon

8/25/2013

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Picture of an old GT mountain bike frame converted to comfy commuter bike

I had fun building this old GT mountain bike frame as a comfy cruiser style commuter bike for a customer. Custom spray paint job with clear coat. Very Cool

As it seems GT decided not to continue production of this model of the Peace Tour, just thought I'd share this photo for fun. An old GT mountain bike frame painted and converted to a comfy old cruiser style commuter bike. Peace, Sweeet!

GT Wheels4Life Peace Tour Commuter Bike -- Performance Exclusive

An opportunity to purchase a bike for touring or commuting with disc brake and a frame made of Reynolds 520 tubing, fenders, Schwalbe Delta Cruiser tires for less than $700 and support a good cause. Limited Edition GT Peace Tour and Wheels4Life have teamed up for this Limited Edition touring bike.
This could quite possibly be one of the most understated bikes on the market today. Very affordable with quality components including 27 speed drivetrain, bar end shifters and threadless stem. Most bikes in this price range don't include those items with gear ratios suitable for loaded climbs.
An all rounder with versatile potential, remove fenders and add some beefy knobs for trail riding or with rack and fender braze ons cute it for stylish commuting wants and needs.
This bike is well reviewed and with a kindly price tag can be upgraded where appropriate. For more information regarding components and other specifications click on the photo provided below or the link provided above.
You won't go wrong on this.
Cheers!

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Artsy Bike Images Slide Show from Bike Tourings, by Rideon

8/13/2013

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A selection of Creative Bike photos from my Flickr Account which I regularly update.
Enjoy, Cheers!

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Darren Alf of Bicycle Touring Pro and Bike Tourings, by Rideon

7/30/2013

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Top of the Line Products and Information at Bicycle Touring Pro

Darren Alff out bike touring.

Back in the day as they say, Portland, Oregon was not the bicycle capital it is so well known for today. In the mid to late 80's I was biking around downtown as a commuter and weekend racer. There were a few devoted shops but the popularity of bicycle commuting had not yet shown itself. When the internet launched itself onto the world a few bike touring afficionados were telling about the disappearance of the touring bike from retail bike shops.

Today of course bicycle touring and commuting have found resurgence and popularity of both is astounding. A bit more than ten years ago the popularity of steel frame builders found success in a touring market demanding to have its needs met. Business oriented folk without much interest in bicycling itself have even found an interest in what was once mostly considered to be a hobbyist or "for the love of it" type business. No more, with a proliferating production of accessories today and bike folks wanting to do more with their bikes than ever before, the market has opened up for capitalization.

What's the point here other than a itty bitty nut shell history story? Well, the buying options can be overwhelming. Making educated buying decisions by way of understanding what is absolutely necessary and where to compromise on certain components, etc. One does not have to be exceedingly technical or proficient in all the bike jargon to feel confident about their purchases. For bike folk, bike folk to be or bike folk wannabe's who are not familiar with Darren Alff, he is considered to be a leader for "the new generation of bicycle touring". His expertise from years of touring and travel are invaluable in learning about gear, equipment, accessories, etc. This "blog about" is an introduction with links to his informational site.

"Bicycle Touring Pro is the world’s most popular bicycle touring website. With a community of readers in just about every country across the globe, Bicycle Touring Pro is the leading international resource for cycle touring information across the globe. The information you will find there has helped thousands of people just like you plan, prepare for, and execute their very own bicycle touring adventures".

There is so much good stuff available at Bicycle Touring Pro, click on either of the images provided for more information, the dude would not "steer you wrong" so to speak.
Cheers!

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Jenson USA one of the Original online bike shops

7/30/2013

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Bike Tourings is now working with Jenson USA in promoting specific products, discounts and special offers. Some of the harder to find parts and accessories for bike touring and commuting can be found at Jenson USA's online supply shop and orders of $50 or more ships free.

With over 20,000 items in stock, expert customer service, and a state-of-the-art 74,000 sq ft facility, Jenson USA prides itself on being the best place for cyclists to buy from, vendors to sell to, and employees to work for.
Although Jenson USA has changed a lot over the years, it’s still very much grounded in the basic philosophies and ideals upon which it was founded. “We’re first and foremost a bicycle company that’s passionate about the sport and the people who enjoy it, our customers are everything.” comments Mike Cachat, CEO and founder. “We’ve built this company with integrity, dedication and a foundation of ethical business policies.

In 1991, Mike envisioned his future as a professional mountain bike racer. In order to support that dream, he got his first job at a local bicycle shop in Brea, California. “I was really kind of a shop rat, building the low end bikes and doing whatever chores needed to be done. At $4.25 an hour it paid enough to help support a portion of my racing and I learned a lot about the business. I eventually started my own bicycle tune-up business on the side and then formed Jenson USA in 1994 while I was still in school. I soon discovered that selling bicycle parts and accessories was a preferred business model compared to the tune-up business.”

Jenson USA is one of the original online bike shops and has been selling complete bikes, bicycle parts and accessories on the internet since 1996. Particular item categories and weekly sales events links are provided for shopping convenience at the Cycling Resources Page.

Looking forward to sharing specific product reviews, parts and accessories here at Bike Tourings.
Cheers!

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Opened one of the first Bike Commuter Coffee Shops in the U.S. Certified Bike Tech. with more than ten years serving the bicycle touring and commuting community.

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Bike Touring Veteran honors September 11th, his mother's birthday, by Rideon

To Wear a Bike Helmet or not to Wear a Bike Helmet? by Rideon

Wear a Bike Helmet as a Fashion Statement

Bell Muni replacing Bell Metro Helmet? Not me. by Rideon

Bicycle Commuting Winter Helmet Accessories

Two Wheeled Croozer Bike Trailer from Nashbar, by Rideon

Jenson USA Sales Events, Get your BicycleTouring, Commuting needs and wishes fulfilled. by Rideon

Jenson USA Sales Events, Best Prices, Fast Shipping, Excellent Service

Touring Bikes that cost less than $1,000. by Rideon

Updated List of Affordable Quality Touring Bikes

GT Wheels4Life Peace Tour Commuter Bike, Limited Edition by Rideon

Artsy Bike Images Slide Show from Bike Tourings, by Rideon

Darren Alf of Bicycle Touring Pro and Bike Tourings, by Rideon

Top of the Line Products and Information at Bicycle Touring Pro

Jenson USA one of the Original online bike shops

Co-op Garden Fundraising Ride

Bike Tourings' Blog

Author,
by Rideon

Categories

Archives

Bike Advocacy Links

Bike Tourings' Blog

Wear a Bike Helmet as a Fashion Statement

Bicycle Commuting Winter Helmet Accessories

Jenson USA Sales Events, Best Prices, Fast Shipping, Excellent Service

Updated List of Affordable Quality Touring Bikes

Top of the Line Products and Information at Bicycle Touring Pro

Bike Tourings' Blog

Author, by Rideon

Categories

Archives

Bike Advocacy Links

Author,
by Rideon