Catrike has introduced a new model. I have ordered one. This Villager mirrors an effort by several tadpole trike manufacturers to provide a simpler and lower priced model.
Here's how Catrike introduces the new model:
This is an affordable, user-friendly Catrike that anyone can ride. Based on strong demand, we have given it a higher seat, 20” wheels, a wider stance and incredible ground clearance. This is a true utilitarian vehicle that has many uses; ride it to the grocery store or out to dinner; it’s great for a picnic in the park, or ride it wherever you want to go. You will enjoy the scenery more than ever and discover the great joy of riding all over again.
The Villager’s 12.5” seat height allows you to get in and out with little effort; 5.5” ground clearance helps you negotiate speed bumps and curb transitions; stable 31” track; simple 9-speed drive train with quality components. This Cat is easy to ride and friendly for a first time buyer. And best of all, it’s affordable.
Human power is great for the future, but even better today.
Beautiful-Simple-Functional Catrike Villager priced at $1610 (the price is $1550 plus shipping).
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Thursday, June 05, 2008
A Stormy Wednesday at bikes@vienna
Well, yesterday I was at the shop, trying to get caught up on repair work. As most of you know, we had quite the series of storms during the afternoon. The power went out around 3:00pm, and hadn't come back on by the time I left at 8:00pm. As a result, we had to postpone the maintenance and repair class, and I got a lot less done than I had hoped. But I didn't let the weather completely thwart my efforts, as you can see in this clip:
Yep, that's one of those LED headlights I'm wearing. Handy little gadget!
Yep, that's one of those LED headlights I'm wearing. Handy little gadget!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Me and Bee
For Viva! Vienna! Ces decorated a helmet using a bee stuffed toy and a fake sunflower. I wore the helmet in the bikes@vienna booth on Church Street to hand out flyers about our ViVa! Helmets contest. We had some delightful entries and the winner will be named tomorrow. I misplaced the down load cable from the digital camera until today so the process is taking longer than I anticipated.
I became a backyard beekeeper this spring after taking an eight week course sponsored by the Beekeeper Association of Northern Virginia (BANV). I now have two hives in the back yard and I am enjoying the experience very much. I would recommend the hobby to you. I have learned so much about bees.
I became a backyard beekeeper this spring after taking an eight week course sponsored by the Beekeeper Association of Northern Virginia (BANV). I now have two hives in the back yard and I am enjoying the experience very much. I would recommend the hobby to you. I have learned so much about bees.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
You'd feel better on a bike
Well actually it's a trike, or rather three of them. An 86 year old mother and her 55 year old daughter have mostly stopped using their car and they now get around Carlsbad, California on their two single trikes and their trike tandem. Watch them in action. Hat tip to Adventure Cycling Bike Bits e-newsletter.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Bike To Work Day Thank Yous
Bike To Work Day 2008 was wet and given that fact it still was a success in my view. The downpour of rain during the earliest morning hours made me wonder if anyone would ride on Friday morning. At 5:30 on my way to the store and then to Whole Foods I noted the drizzle. But those determined cyclists started arriving at the Vienna Pit Stop a bit after 6:00 AM. During the next two and one half hours the stream of riders was steady and the water tailed off.
It was a good morning. Upbeat people riding bikes are inspiring. There were lots of volunteers helping with the distribution of t-shirts, the new Fairfax County bike maps, and W&OD water bottles. My thanks to Jeff, Larry, Jo, Marty, Anne, Tim, and Jeff.
Keren and the Whole Foods group kept the snacks, juice, water, and good strong coffee coming. Thank you so much Keren et al!
Keith Oberg was there from Bike For The World. We had a VDOT representative, a Tour de Cure representative, Barbara from PPTC, and Hunter from Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling. Once again Fairfax County Supervisor Linda Smyth joined us and listened to cyclist talk about what they believe needs to be done to improve cycling conditions in the county. Thank you to all of those people for joining in.
Fox 5 News chose the Vienna Pit Stop for their news coverage of Bike To Work Day. It added excitement to the morning as they did interviews and on the spot reports. A thank you to Fox 5 for giving the event coverage.
Over 6,000 riders registered for Bike To Work Day. Their motivation to ride is varied, but I always marvel at the emphasis that gets placed on the Bike To Work Day t-shirt. Thursday evening as I printed out the list of those registered for the Vienna Pit Stop I received a call at the store. It was a cyclist who wanted to know if he could get his t-shirt even though he would not be in town for the event. He was calling from Venezuela! He'd been there for business and his flight back to Washington had been cancelled so he would not get back in time for Bike To Work Day. A regular bike commuter, he had a collection of BTWD t-shirts and he did not want to break the string. I like it.
What ever the reason........$3.96 a gallon fuel, endorphins, or a Bike To Work t-shirt; I hope you can find a way to ride your bike to work, to school, to the store, or around the block because it is good for you.
It was a good morning. Upbeat people riding bikes are inspiring. There were lots of volunteers helping with the distribution of t-shirts, the new Fairfax County bike maps, and W&OD water bottles. My thanks to Jeff, Larry, Jo, Marty, Anne, Tim, and Jeff.
Keren and the Whole Foods group kept the snacks, juice, water, and good strong coffee coming. Thank you so much Keren et al!
Keith Oberg was there from Bike For The World. We had a VDOT representative, a Tour de Cure representative, Barbara from PPTC, and Hunter from Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling. Once again Fairfax County Supervisor Linda Smyth joined us and listened to cyclist talk about what they believe needs to be done to improve cycling conditions in the county. Thank you to all of those people for joining in.
Fox 5 News chose the Vienna Pit Stop for their news coverage of Bike To Work Day. It added excitement to the morning as they did interviews and on the spot reports. A thank you to Fox 5 for giving the event coverage.
Over 6,000 riders registered for Bike To Work Day. Their motivation to ride is varied, but I always marvel at the emphasis that gets placed on the Bike To Work Day t-shirt. Thursday evening as I printed out the list of those registered for the Vienna Pit Stop I received a call at the store. It was a cyclist who wanted to know if he could get his t-shirt even though he would not be in town for the event. He was calling from Venezuela! He'd been there for business and his flight back to Washington had been cancelled so he would not get back in time for Bike To Work Day. A regular bike commuter, he had a collection of BTWD t-shirts and he did not want to break the string. I like it.
What ever the reason........$3.96 a gallon fuel, endorphins, or a Bike To Work t-shirt; I hope you can find a way to ride your bike to work, to school, to the store, or around the block because it is good for you.
More Dahons have arrived
We had 31 additional Dahons arrive last Thursday and Friday. We now have Ciaos, Glide P8, Mu 24, Mariner, and Vittesse models added to what we have in the store. I probably did not order enough Glide P8s. Two sold immediately because of the great ride and terrific looks. The saddle and grips with a leather look and the deep root beer color of the frame make quite an impression.
Folding bikes continue to sell briskly. This would be a good year to purchase your folder. I am already hearing conversations about big increases in folding bike costs in 2009. Come test ride a folder.
Folding bikes continue to sell briskly. This would be a good year to purchase your folder. I am already hearing conversations about big increases in folding bike costs in 2009. Come test ride a folder.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Do you sell tandems?
Oh yes, but we are not conventional in our tandems (just like we're not conventional in our other bikes).
What tandems do we have in the store?
Barcroft Columbia (recumbent)
Hase Pino (Mixed upright and recumbent)
Bike Friday Family Tandem (take apart bike)
Kidz Tandem from Brown Cycles (Upright with child in front)
Rans Dynamik Duo (Crank Forward)
Rans Screamer (Recumbent)
EZ-1 Side by Side Tandem (recumbents connected side by side)
EZ-3 SX Trikes connected in Tandem (recumbent delta trikes connected in series)
EZ-3 USX Trikes connected in Tandem (recumbent delta trikes connected in series)
Hase Kett Trikes connected in Tandem (recumbent delta trikes connected in series)
Draisin Plus (wheelchair and upright)
Draisin Captain Duo (upright riders on trike)
Draisin Twister (Side by side recumbent riders on trike)
Do we have road or mountain style tandems, nope.
What tandems do we have in the store?
Barcroft Columbia (recumbent)
Hase Pino (Mixed upright and recumbent)
Bike Friday Family Tandem (take apart bike)
Kidz Tandem from Brown Cycles (Upright with child in front)
Rans Dynamik Duo (Crank Forward)
Rans Screamer (Recumbent)
EZ-1 Side by Side Tandem (recumbents connected side by side)
EZ-3 SX Trikes connected in Tandem (recumbent delta trikes connected in series)
EZ-3 USX Trikes connected in Tandem (recumbent delta trikes connected in series)
Hase Kett Trikes connected in Tandem (recumbent delta trikes connected in series)
Draisin Plus (wheelchair and upright)
Draisin Captain Duo (upright riders on trike)
Draisin Twister (Side by side recumbent riders on trike)
Do we have road or mountain style tandems, nope.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Next......Hase at bikes@vienna
Today I have a broad range of Hase products in the store. Hase manufactures very nice trikes, tandems, singles, and a kid's trailing device that will turn into a sporty trike.
On this date I have:
1 Pino Tour w/Double Kickstand
3 Kettwiesels with 27 speeds
1 Kettwiesel Handcrank
1 Lepus
1 Trets Trailer
I sold the Tangun on Friday. I have ordered a replacement.
I have these high quality German bikes and trikes for you to test and purchase.
On this date I have:
1 Pino Tour w/Double Kickstand
3 Kettwiesels with 27 speeds
1 Kettwiesel Handcrank
1 Lepus
1 Trets Trailer
I sold the Tangun on Friday. I have ordered a replacement.
I have these high quality German bikes and trikes for you to test and purchase.
Friday, May 09, 2008
Do you have Dahons in the store?
We get lots of phone calls. I kid that it is because a human answers the phone here most of the time.
A reoccurring call involves whether we have certain products. For example, people call and say that they see we are a Dahon dealer. I confirm that and then they go on to ask if we have any in the store. It seems that they have called or visited other stores to find that while those stores are dealers there are not any or many models to see and test.
Sooooooooo I thought some blog entries might be helpful for our prospective customers. We have many, many Dahons. As of this date we have:
06 Dahon Hammerhead 1
07 Dahon Curve D3 7
07 Dahon Speed D7 1
07 Dahon Mu P8 1
07 Dahon Expresso 18" 9
07 Dahon Cadenza 18" 1
08 Dahon Speed D7 8
08 Dahon Speed P8 4
08 Dahon Mu P8 6
08 Dahon Expresso 16"/18"/20" 15
We have Dahons in transit (Ciaos). We have an extensive pre-season order that is being filled by Dahon as their containers of bikes arrive in California.
That's the Dahon news for today.
A reoccurring call involves whether we have certain products. For example, people call and say that they see we are a Dahon dealer. I confirm that and then they go on to ask if we have any in the store. It seems that they have called or visited other stores to find that while those stores are dealers there are not any or many models to see and test.
Sooooooooo I thought some blog entries might be helpful for our prospective customers. We have many, many Dahons. As of this date we have:
06 Dahon Hammerhead 1
07 Dahon Curve D3 7
07 Dahon Speed D7 1
07 Dahon Mu P8 1
07 Dahon Expresso 18" 9
07 Dahon Cadenza 18" 1
08 Dahon Speed D7 8
08 Dahon Speed P8 4
08 Dahon Mu P8 6
08 Dahon Expresso 16"/18"/20" 15
We have Dahons in transit (Ciaos). We have an extensive pre-season order that is being filled by Dahon as their containers of bikes arrive in California.
That's the Dahon news for today.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Recumbent Blog retires
The Recumbent Blog has been an excellent resource for recumbent enthusiasts since 2005. Alan Barnard maintained the commercial-free site, providing many excellent bike and accessory reviews, photos, and recumbent tidbits. It was one of the few bike blogs that I checked on a regular basis.
Alan's focus had changed from writing about recumbents to writing about bicycle transportation when he began using his bikes for his daily commute and for local trips.
Alan's focus had changed from writing about recumbents to writing about bicycle transportation when he began using his bikes for his daily commute and for local trips.
You may have noticed that an increasing number of my posts fall outside the realm of what would be considered appropriate for a “recumbent blog”. As my focus has moved away from recreational cycling toward transportational and utility cycling, my interests have also grown to include bikes other than recumbents. This is a good thing, but I sometimes feel as if I'm doing my readers a disservice by veering off the advertised topic too often. So, at some point in the not too distant future, I'll be starting a new blog with a broader focus that encompasses any and all topics related to using bicycles for transportation. The new blog will continue to celebrate the beauty and elegance of bicycles, as well as the joys of bike riding, while simultaneously focusing on bicycles as instruments of change; in my view, these are not mutually exclusive concepts.We look forward to reading his new blog and we suspect it will continue to include many entries about recumbents. What better bike to use for transportation cycling. We use ours for our daily commute to work, to get groceries with our trailer, and for touring and recreational rides. We just happen to like to be comfortable while riding. We'll miss The Recumbent Blog.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
A success in organizing an event
As a community business I get lots of opportunities to donate money or products. I appreciate it when I receive a follow up thank you letter like this one. I really appreciate it when the organizers are wise and achieve the kind of success that tripling the number of elementary school students participating represents. Wow, an increase from 46 to 131 is remarkable. FANTASTIC!
Dear John,
I am writing to you to thank Bikes @ Vienna for their support of the 4th Annual Vienna Elementary Run for Fun that was held on Sunday, April 27th 2008.
Our event this year was the biggest yet, registering over 550 runners and exceeding the fundraising goals for our school. Our sponsors have greatly contributed to the success of The Run for Fun by supporting our efforts with generous donations of products, services and money. We truly appreciate our local sponsors and the individual support of people like you, whose time, generosity and community spirit go the extra mile.
This year we made a push to get more elementary students to run the race. We began in the fall with a weekly before school fitness program. Throughout the spring we offered weekly training runs and the physical education curriculum put extra emphasis on the 5K. As a result, 131 elementary students (compared to 46 last year) completed the 5K and each one received a medal for their efforts.
By sponsoring, you become a catalyst for our mission, to prioritize physical fitness and encourage kids in motion. This run, while providing motivation to adhere to a healthy lifestyle and improve general fitness, also funds many activities and improvements for our school. We appreciate your support and are grateful to live in a community that encourages fitness. We also hope that you feel it was a valuable promotion of your business and hope that you will consider sponsoring our 5th annual race next year, Sunday April 26th 2009.
Sincerely,
Laura Goyer
PTA President
Vienna Elementary School
128 Center Street, S.
Vienna, VA 22180
Dear John,
I am writing to you to thank Bikes @ Vienna for their support of the 4th Annual Vienna Elementary Run for Fun that was held on Sunday, April 27th 2008.
Our event this year was the biggest yet, registering over 550 runners and exceeding the fundraising goals for our school. Our sponsors have greatly contributed to the success of The Run for Fun by supporting our efforts with generous donations of products, services and money. We truly appreciate our local sponsors and the individual support of people like you, whose time, generosity and community spirit go the extra mile.
This year we made a push to get more elementary students to run the race. We began in the fall with a weekly before school fitness program. Throughout the spring we offered weekly training runs and the physical education curriculum put extra emphasis on the 5K. As a result, 131 elementary students (compared to 46 last year) completed the 5K and each one received a medal for their efforts.
By sponsoring, you become a catalyst for our mission, to prioritize physical fitness and encourage kids in motion. This run, while providing motivation to adhere to a healthy lifestyle and improve general fitness, also funds many activities and improvements for our school. We appreciate your support and are grateful to live in a community that encourages fitness. We also hope that you feel it was a valuable promotion of your business and hope that you will consider sponsoring our 5th annual race next year, Sunday April 26th 2009.
Sincerely,
Laura Goyer
PTA President
Vienna Elementary School
128 Center Street, S.
Vienna, VA 22180
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Vienna Map with possible routes for travel to the W&OD
This map is part of the Fairfax County Bike Map effort. Charlie Strunk, Fairfax County Bike Co-ordinator, and I talked with the Vienna Town Council about the County's Map project last September. It was a good discussion with the Council members making suggestions which Charlie incorporated into the map shown.
In attempting Fairfax County's first bicycle map Charlie Strunk has faced a wide range of challenges. This is a huge county. The traffic congestion is daunting. There are political sensitivities to be considered and accommodated. Charlie is doing wonderful work.
I present this map to you as a map that shows how a person might wish to travel in Vienna to get to the W&OD Trail.
In attempting Fairfax County's first bicycle map Charlie Strunk has faced a wide range of challenges. This is a huge county. The traffic congestion is daunting. There are political sensitivities to be considered and accommodated. Charlie is doing wonderful work.
I present this map to you as a map that shows how a person might wish to travel in Vienna to get to the W&OD Trail.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
ViVa! Helmets! bikes@vienna's contest
bikes@vienna celebrates a 10th anniversary in May. We opened days before ViVa! Vienna! in 1998 and by golly, we're still doing business.
Now I'm a low key celebrator, but we need to do something fun to observe this anniversary. In 1978 I rode a day of RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) from Iowa City to Maquoketa. I noted a family with three children who had decorated their helmets with colorful nerf toys shaped like cars, trains, airplanes, and ships. This distinctive headgear allowed family members to spot each other in the crowd of riders.
In recent years as I've ridden on RAGBRAI I've noticed that the decorating of helmets is the norm. In 2003 I came across the guy with the Starship Enterprise displayed atop his helmet day after day. The teams decorate not only their helmets, but they many times wear costumes especially on the last day of the ride.
Easter Sunday we went to Richmond to visit my son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. They took us to the Richmond Easter Parade on Memorial Avenue. The Easter hats were everywhere with colors, shapes, and forms. Sooooooooo these experiences resulted in the idea for this contest...... ViVa! Helmets!
Our booth (#116) at ViVa! Vienna! will be where to wear your decorated helmet to enter our 10th Anniversary Contest. We'll take a couple of photos of you and your helmet. The photos will be the basis for a panel of judges to select winners for a new folding bike, a new youth bike, weekend rental of a recumbent tandem, weekend rental of a Kidz Tandem, and several free bicycle tune-ups. Our categories will be Youth, Adult, Couples, Parent and Child, plus Pet and Owner.
Now my photo here is not a prize winner, but something to get you thinking. Yes, that is a little Chocolate Labrador dolly on top of my helmet. Java, the Chocolate Lab, is such a part of my days that it made sense.
The idea is to have fun and promote safety. The decorations need to be light weight and flexible. Entries which use wood, metal, or items which would do harm if your helmet has to do its duty will not be considered for prizes.
Have your ideas started forming yet? ViVa! Helmets!
Now I'm a low key celebrator, but we need to do something fun to observe this anniversary. In 1978 I rode a day of RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) from Iowa City to Maquoketa. I noted a family with three children who had decorated their helmets with colorful nerf toys shaped like cars, trains, airplanes, and ships. This distinctive headgear allowed family members to spot each other in the crowd of riders.
In recent years as I've ridden on RAGBRAI I've noticed that the decorating of helmets is the norm. In 2003 I came across the guy with the Starship Enterprise displayed atop his helmet day after day. The teams decorate not only their helmets, but they many times wear costumes especially on the last day of the ride.
Easter Sunday we went to Richmond to visit my son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. They took us to the Richmond Easter Parade on Memorial Avenue. The Easter hats were everywhere with colors, shapes, and forms. Sooooooooo these experiences resulted in the idea for this contest...... ViVa! Helmets!
Our booth (#116) at ViVa! Vienna! will be where to wear your decorated helmet to enter our 10th Anniversary Contest. We'll take a couple of photos of you and your helmet. The photos will be the basis for a panel of judges to select winners for a new folding bike, a new youth bike, weekend rental of a recumbent tandem, weekend rental of a Kidz Tandem, and several free bicycle tune-ups. Our categories will be Youth, Adult, Couples, Parent and Child, plus Pet and Owner.
Now my photo here is not a prize winner, but something to get you thinking. Yes, that is a little Chocolate Labrador dolly on top of my helmet. Java, the Chocolate Lab, is such a part of my days that it made sense.
The idea is to have fun and promote safety. The decorations need to be light weight and flexible. Entries which use wood, metal, or items which would do harm if your helmet has to do its duty will not be considered for prizes.
Have your ideas started forming yet? ViVa! Helmets!
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Coming Soon! GT-1
This is a message from Mick Sims of Greenspeed.
There have been leaks and rumours for a while that Greenspeed was releasing a “cheaper” trike and we would like to squash those rumours! We don’t feel like we’ve created a cheaper trike at all, what we have created is the ultimate commuting trike. From the outset what we wanted to create was a hassle-free trike for commuters and ‘returning’ cyclists. Like the great new commuting bikes coming out with internal hubs and brakes we thought, ‘how easy would this be to incorporate into a trike’.
Appeal for this trike was two fold:
One was for your everyday commuter needs for a solid care-free machine that wouldn’t take up much of your time in maintenance. We understand that you as a commuter needs to rely on your trike day in and day out and with out getting grease on your hands. The second was for you who wanted a simpler or more integrated trike. Incorporating internal gears for the use of a single shifter, and internal brakes and single front ring, the gt1 is a very functional trike packed into a sleek looking design. But let’s face it, a reliable trike is going to appeal to all but the most touring or sports minded trike riders.
We started with the tried and true gt-series II frame; hand made from air craft grade Cromoly tubing, for light weight reliability, and a ride that isn’t going to shatter teeth. In that package you get all the gt-series II features of NSR steering for no brake steer and a smooth road feel, up-dated chain management and the alloy crank extension with adjustment markers. We stuck with the 16” wheels for their light, zippy feel and fast take off combined with high strength/weight ratio and their ability to transfer less stress to the frame under cornering loads.
As has always been our goal at Greenspeed, we feel such a worthy trike is really going to get people thinking more about human power. Oh yes, and by the way, this trike has a suggested retail of 2350USD. Although this is a new price point for Greenspeed, we feel it is more than worthy to carry our name along with its ‘derailleured’ brethren. Please take a test ride and see for yourself.
Full spec as follows:
Model gt1
Colours Deep Metallic Red w/ safety yellow seat
Frame Hand made cromoly 4130 main frame and seat
Alloy crank extension (no post, w/ light tag and adj. markers)
Folding Removable seat and folding mech.
Sizing Standard 41-49” x-seam
Small 37-45” x-seam
Steering. Linkage USS ‘NSR steering’. Bars with width and fore/aft adj.
Seat. Cromoly/Mesh 40dg with lumbar and shoulder curves
Track width 29.5” / 750mm
Wheel base 39” / 975mm
Seat height 9.75” / 250mm
Wheels 16 x 1-1/2” 40-349 Hand built w/ Jetset rims, SS spokes and Scorcher tyres
Brakes Sturmey Archer cable act. Drum brakes w/Promax locking levers
Cranks Driveline 170mm (std) 155mm (sm) fitted with 2 chain guards
Gears Shimano Nexus 8speed 25 - 78 g”s
Fitted extras Rear mudguard and flag
Build Options Schlumpf drive. (speed drive expands range to 22-113g”s)
Accessories All Greenspeed tadpole accessories, along with a myriad of other manufacturers’ accessories
There have been leaks and rumours for a while that Greenspeed was releasing a “cheaper” trike and we would like to squash those rumours! We don’t feel like we’ve created a cheaper trike at all, what we have created is the ultimate commuting trike. From the outset what we wanted to create was a hassle-free trike for commuters and ‘returning’ cyclists. Like the great new commuting bikes coming out with internal hubs and brakes we thought, ‘how easy would this be to incorporate into a trike’.
Appeal for this trike was two fold:
One was for your everyday commuter needs for a solid care-free machine that wouldn’t take up much of your time in maintenance. We understand that you as a commuter needs to rely on your trike day in and day out and with out getting grease on your hands. The second was for you who wanted a simpler or more integrated trike. Incorporating internal gears for the use of a single shifter, and internal brakes and single front ring, the gt1 is a very functional trike packed into a sleek looking design. But let’s face it, a reliable trike is going to appeal to all but the most touring or sports minded trike riders.
We started with the tried and true gt-series II frame; hand made from air craft grade Cromoly tubing, for light weight reliability, and a ride that isn’t going to shatter teeth. In that package you get all the gt-series II features of NSR steering for no brake steer and a smooth road feel, up-dated chain management and the alloy crank extension with adjustment markers. We stuck with the 16” wheels for their light, zippy feel and fast take off combined with high strength/weight ratio and their ability to transfer less stress to the frame under cornering loads.
As has always been our goal at Greenspeed, we feel such a worthy trike is really going to get people thinking more about human power. Oh yes, and by the way, this trike has a suggested retail of 2350USD. Although this is a new price point for Greenspeed, we feel it is more than worthy to carry our name along with its ‘derailleured’ brethren. Please take a test ride and see for yourself.
Full spec as follows:
Model gt1
Colours Deep Metallic Red w/ safety yellow seat
Frame Hand made cromoly 4130 main frame and seat
Alloy crank extension (no post, w/ light tag and adj. markers)
Folding Removable seat and folding mech.
Sizing Standard 41-49” x-seam
Small 37-45” x-seam
Steering. Linkage USS ‘NSR steering’. Bars with width and fore/aft adj.
Seat. Cromoly/Mesh 40dg with lumbar and shoulder curves
Track width 29.5” / 750mm
Wheel base 39” / 975mm
Seat height 9.75” / 250mm
Wheels 16 x 1-1/2” 40-349 Hand built w/ Jetset rims, SS spokes and Scorcher tyres
Brakes Sturmey Archer cable act. Drum brakes w/Promax locking levers
Cranks Driveline 170mm (std) 155mm (sm) fitted with 2 chain guards
Gears Shimano Nexus 8speed 25 - 78 g”s
Fitted extras Rear mudguard and flag
Build Options Schlumpf drive. (speed drive expands range to 22-113g”s)
Accessories All Greenspeed tadpole accessories, along with a myriad of other manufacturers’ accessories
Sunday, April 06, 2008
W&OD Trail Patrol Seeks New Members
The W&OD Trail runs through the communities of Arlington, Falls Church, Vienna, Reston, Herndon, Sterling, Ashburn, Leesburg, Hamilton, and Purcellville. The Trail Patrol is seeking new members to be on-scene ambassadors of safety, courtesy, information, and goodwill. All adult trail users--cyclists, walker, runners, skaters, carriage pushers, dog walkers, horse riders, or wheel chair users--are eligible to apply.
Four orientation sessions are already scheduled for 2008: The first will be held on Thursday, April 17 in Alexandria from 7 to 9 pm, the second will be held on Saturday, April 26 in the Ashburn Library from 2 to 4 pm. The third will be at the Raflo Park in Leesburg on Saturday, May 3 from 2 to 4 pm and the forth will be Saturday, May 17 at the Vienna Community Center from 10 am to noon.
For further information and signup please contact John Boone at 703-726-6993 or jmboone1@verizon.net.
Four orientation sessions are already scheduled for 2008: The first will be held on Thursday, April 17 in Alexandria from 7 to 9 pm, the second will be held on Saturday, April 26 in the Ashburn Library from 2 to 4 pm. The third will be at the Raflo Park in Leesburg on Saturday, May 3 from 2 to 4 pm and the forth will be Saturday, May 17 at the Vienna Community Center from 10 am to noon.
For further information and signup please contact John Boone at 703-726-6993 or jmboone1@verizon.net.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
It is a wonderful gift.
Seems like this blog has become a community billboard recently, but there is lots going on. The displayed flyer is for the blood drive scheduled for Friday, April 4th at the Vienna Community Building.
I give blood every two months. It is good, rich blood laced with plenty of fat. It takes about 45 minutes. I feel good about my donation.
My appointment is late in the morning. Join me for orange juice and Fig Newtons when we're finished.
I give blood every two months. It is good, rich blood laced with plenty of fat. It takes about 45 minutes. I feel good about my donation.
My appointment is late in the morning. Join me for orange juice and Fig Newtons when we're finished.
9th Annual Providence District Environmental Fair
bikes@vienna gets all kinds of opportunities to make donations of goods and services. This Saturday is the Providence District Environmental Fair and we'll be there providing some basic bicycle repair and evaluations. While this is an event close to our core values it is also a way to say thank you to Providence District Supervisor Linda Smyth. Supervisor Symth continues to be a supporter of improving conditions for biking in Fairfax County. Each Bike To Work Day she comes early in the morning to the Vienna Pit Stop to talk to cyclists. Her support for creating the Fairfax County Bike Coordinator position, researching and publishing the new Fairfax bicycle map, and efforts to improve bike parking in commercial areas are reasons that she is appreciated.
This fair is Saturday from 9 to 12 at Fairhill School. It looks like an interesting event. I'd suggest that it would be a good opportunity to say thank you to Supervisor Symth for what she does for cycling and the environment. That is the reason that bikes@vienna will be there.
This fair is Saturday from 9 to 12 at Fairhill School. It looks like an interesting event. I'd suggest that it would be a good opportunity to say thank you to Supervisor Symth for what she does for cycling and the environment. That is the reason that bikes@vienna will be there.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Yoga For Cyclists
My friend, Luann Fulbright, is a wonderful yoga instructor. I've taken classes from her for several years. Tim Fricker is now enrolled in her classes. During a recent visit by her to bikes@vienna we got talking about a yoga class that would help prepare individuals for the cycling season. The result was Luann setting up a series of four classes to be taught on Sunday afternoons during April at her studio. bikes@vienna is co-sponsoring the classes.
Please click on the flyer and learn more about these classes. I think you will both enjoy and benefit from Luann's instruction.
Please click on the flyer and learn more about these classes. I think you will both enjoy and benefit from Luann's instruction.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
BTWD is Friday, May 16th
This is a request ............ go to your calendar and mark Friday, May 16 and Friday, May 9. May 16 is Bike To Work Day. May 9 is the last day you can register for BTWD and if you are one of the first 7,000 riders be eligible to receive the prestigious BTWD T-shirt.
Big red circles on those days because this is going to be a noteworthy day for the Vienna Pit Stop. My plans are to expand the size of the event. I go to Spokes this afternoon to talk with Jeff Palmer about their participation this year. My Whole Foods partner, Ann Biesel, is going to the Alexandria Whole Foods so there will be a new Whole Foods person with which to work this year.
You mark your calendar. I'm going to get working.
Big red circles on those days because this is going to be a noteworthy day for the Vienna Pit Stop. My plans are to expand the size of the event. I go to Spokes this afternoon to talk with Jeff Palmer about their participation this year. My Whole Foods partner, Ann Biesel, is going to the Alexandria Whole Foods so there will be a new Whole Foods person with which to work this year.
You mark your calendar. I'm going to get working.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
EZ-3 SX Connected
Al Tyre and Jae Im are shown on a set of EZ-3 SX connected with a Van-Guard Manufacturing connector. Consider that the trikes can be pedaled and braked independently. Yes, the rider in front (captain) is doing the steering, but the rider in the rear (stoker) controls their own resistance, cadence, and some braking.
The cost of the trikes and connector is $2135. That brakes down as $980 per trike and $175 for the connector. This is based on costs as of 3.1.08. Sun Cycles is preparing to increase their price for the EZ-3 SX trike
Click on this photo to go to photos on Flickr.com which will show the connector more clearly.
The cost of the trikes and connector is $2135. That brakes down as $980 per trike and $175 for the connector. This is based on costs as of 3.1.08. Sun Cycles is preparing to increase their price for the EZ-3 SX trike
Click on this photo to go to photos on Flickr.com which will show the connector more clearly.
EZ-1s set up as a Socialable Tandem
In an effort to find more opportunities for people to enjoy cycling together bikes@vienna has brought in the socialable tandem kit from Black Bird Manufacturing. As you can see in the photo........take two EZ-1 recumbents and add the connector kit which hooks the frames together, synchronizes the steering, and creates a platform between the bikes.
This configuration has so many potentials. The seats on the EZ-1s slide along the frame of the bike so an individual 6'4" and an individual much, much shorter can ride together. The pedaling is independent so riders of different strengths and stamina can enjoy riding together. Can there be wrestling over the steering, yes there can. This unit promotes socialability.
bikes@vienna sells the EZ-1 recumbent for $680. The kit adds $750 to the cost. Let's just call the cost $2050.
This configuration has so many potentials. The seats on the EZ-1s slide along the frame of the bike so an individual 6'4" and an individual much, much shorter can ride together. The pedaling is independent so riders of different strengths and stamina can enjoy riding together. Can there be wrestling over the steering, yes there can. This unit promotes socialability.
bikes@vienna sells the EZ-1 recumbent for $680. The kit adds $750 to the cost. Let's just call the cost $2050.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Spring hours begin March 20
Oooooooh, am I ready for Spring. Beginning Thursday, March 20th bikes@vienna will return to being open on Tuesday and lengthen hours to be open until 7 PM except Wednesday and Sunday. Wednesday we will continue to be closed. Sunday we will close at 5 PM. So here is the schedule beginning March 20th:
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat 10 AM to 7 PM
Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM
Wednesday Closed
As always, we will be happy to open earlier or close later by appointment.
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat 10 AM to 7 PM
Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM
Wednesday Closed
As always, we will be happy to open earlier or close later by appointment.
In Praise of Fenders (aka Mudguards)
If you come by our shop, most days you'll see one of my bikes sitting out front, since I ride in most of the time. Folks that know me and know my bikes can pick them out by a couple of key features, one of which is the fact that most of my bikes have fenders on them. In this region, that sets my bikes apart from the vast majority of bikes, since folks here generally shy away from fenders. So why do I buck the prevailing style? It's not simply curmudgeonly behavior... there's a practical reason.Take a look at my Bridgestone to the left there. Look closely at the tires and the inside of the fender and especially the black mudflap at the bottom. Notice the plethora of mud caked on the tire on the inside of the fender/mudflap? That's the accumulated goo from two recent rides on the C&O Canal after rainfall. What you don't see is any appreciable gunk on the rest of the bike, or on me, after the ride. In marked contrast, on both rides I saw a number of other folk riding bikes without fenders who had amazing mud streaks up their backs.
Aside from the forays on the towpath, one of the things I enjoy about having fenders on most of my bikes is that I never have to think about whether or not it's going to rain... I'm always prepared. It makes my bikes ready to go any time, any place... in other words, versatile. And honestly, they don't add significant weight or air resistance or anything like that. Sure, you probably wouldn't put them on a high end carbon racing bike (you probably can't fit them anyway), but on many other bikes they are a great feature.
I used to think in terms of having a "rain bike"... now I suppose I have a couple of "sun bikes"... the few without fenders that I only ride when I'm reasonably sure the weather is clear, while most of my bikes are fendered. It just makes it easier to have fun on my bikes. So give some thought to adding them to your bike... I don't think you'll regret it, and you may very well find it helps you get out on your bike more often, and that's always good!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Molly Raymond in the Inside BIS quarterly newsletter
This weekend I was given a story about Molly Raymond who purchased an EZ-3 trike from bikes@vienna late last year. It is such an inspirational item that I want to share it with you. I contacted Mike and Molly Raymond to get a copy of the profile that appeared in Inside BIS which is the quarterly newsletter of Brain Injury Services, Inc.
Molly sent me this note which tells you more about her level of energy and how much she is enjoying the trike:
"hi john,
i dont mind if you use my story and photo. i am soooo enjoying the bike. freedom!! i used to ride a mountain bike 5-15 miles sometimes everyday for many years. so not being able to ride for the last 3 years -and then now. feels so great. my Physical Therapist is thrilled and says i am getting stronger. they have my photo up in their practice. my Neurologist is thrilled too and has the photo and gave both of them your web site. i gets lots of questions as i drive around the area with it on the back of my car. everyone wants to know where i got it so i tell them. one of the ladies at my church just this am -has a disabled daughter-she said in their special school one of the older kids was wanting one-the mom had looked into it and they were the real expensive ones-so she took down your number and website off my bike and will share it with the school this week.
attached is my photo.
thanks,
molly raymond"
Molly inspires me. I hope you will enjoy reading about her progress. Click on the article to gain a larger sized image and then click again where it says "All sizes" for an even larger text.
Molly sent me this note which tells you more about her level of energy and how much she is enjoying the trike:
"hi john,
i dont mind if you use my story and photo. i am soooo enjoying the bike. freedom!! i used to ride a mountain bike 5-15 miles sometimes everyday for many years. so not being able to ride for the last 3 years -and then now. feels so great. my Physical Therapist is thrilled and says i am getting stronger. they have my photo up in their practice. my Neurologist is thrilled too and has the photo and gave both of them your web site. i gets lots of questions as i drive around the area with it on the back of my car. everyone wants to know where i got it so i tell them. one of the ladies at my church just this am -has a disabled daughter-she said in their special school one of the older kids was wanting one-the mom had looked into it and they were the real expensive ones-so she took down your number and website off my bike and will share it with the school this week.
attached is my photo.
thanks,
molly raymond"
Molly inspires me. I hope you will enjoy reading about her progress. Click on the article to gain a larger sized image and then click again where it says "All sizes" for an even larger text.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Our Change in 2008
n 2008 bikes@vienna is moving away from selling conventional bikes. For an extended time we have not stocked road bikes and had just a few entry level mountain bikes. Our offerings have included hybrids and comfort bikes.
Our forte has been recumbents, tricycles, tandems, and folding bikes. I've decided to take us more that direction. Through several sales we will sell our more conventional bikes and end having those models in the store.
The rental program will also change. Rental bikes have always been a way for customers to test their interest in cycling and a way for us to sell bikes. The plan is for that idea to continue, but that means we will not rent hybrids this year. The yellow Fusion shown in the photo will be our most available rental bike. These crank forward bikes are very comfortable and I hope will provide hours of enjoyment on the W&OD Trail. Forgive me for pounding on this point, but we are NOT renting road, mountain, hybrid, single speed, cruisers, or ten speeds.
This shift in bicycles available for sale will prompt people to ask if we will do service work on all types of models and the answer is YES. We will continue to do repairs on all types of bikes and we will honor our commitment for "Continuing Care" for the bikes that we have sold regardless of style.
2008 is bikes@vienna's 10th year in business. We are moving towards "All Ability Cycling". This is an exciting change in a year when the word "change" holds hope for many people.
Our forte has been recumbents, tricycles, tandems, and folding bikes. I've decided to take us more that direction. Through several sales we will sell our more conventional bikes and end having those models in the store.
The rental program will also change. Rental bikes have always been a way for customers to test their interest in cycling and a way for us to sell bikes. The plan is for that idea to continue, but that means we will not rent hybrids this year. The yellow Fusion shown in the photo will be our most available rental bike. These crank forward bikes are very comfortable and I hope will provide hours of enjoyment on the W&OD Trail. Forgive me for pounding on this point, but we are NOT renting road, mountain, hybrid, single speed, cruisers, or ten speeds.
This shift in bicycles available for sale will prompt people to ask if we will do service work on all types of models and the answer is YES. We will continue to do repairs on all types of bikes and we will honor our commitment for "Continuing Care" for the bikes that we have sold regardless of style.
2008 is bikes@vienna's 10th year in business. We are moving towards "All Ability Cycling". This is an exciting change in a year when the word "change" holds hope for many people.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Live from Portland!
Tim here, coming to you from Portland, Oregon, at the North American Handbuilt Bicycle Show.To the left here you see one of many amazing limited production bicycles at the show. You're not seeing things... it's made of wood! I don't recall the specific species of wood, but it's from Brazil, and I'm told it's being harvested sustainably. It's from a company called Renovo Hardwood Bicycles, and it looks really lovely. And they had one of their bikes hanging from a scale to show that it weighs in at just under 18 pounds!
This is just one of many very cool bikes I've seen so far at the show. Many of the builders are working in steel, which is the material I am gearing up to work with myself. There are a surprising number of small framebuilding outfits springing up around the country these days, and several of the "grand old names" in the business are still actively building, like Richard
Sachs, Peter Weigle, Brian Bayliss and Bruce Gordon, who are all at the show. In addition, there are a number of companies showing framebuilding equipment, which is of particular interest to me. I got to meet Joe Bringheli, who built the jigs that I recently bought, as well as Hank Folson of Henry James Bicycles, who manufacture some of the most popular and well designed fixtures in the industry. I had a really enjoyable chat with him at his booth today... a fascinating and very nice guy.
Finally, to the right here is a City Bike from Pereira Cycles, here in Portland. He (Tony P.) builds some truly lovely bikes in steel. He won awards at this show last year in three different categories, and I can see why. Amazing work.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
New at bikes@vienna.....Hase Tagun
I'll get a photo to go with this item.
James Anderson has been working this winter at bikes@vienna. Yesterday James assembled the first Hase Tagun that we've had come into the store. The Tagun has underseat steering, rear suspension, and it folds to fit more compactly in your vehicle or on Metro. James was out riding the Tagun in the parking lot and it was obvious that he was enjoying the bike so I suggested that he write a paragraph about his view of the Tagun.
Here's James' view:
Just wanted to write and express my thoughts on riding the Tagun I just built. Oh! What fun it is to ride! I know you asked me to keep the hyperbole to a minimum but I might have a really hard time. The highlights: A long wheelbase that feels like a short one, the SRAM dual drive gearing felt like the perfect set of ratios for the bike, I mean low down and dirty for the climbs and woah! widen that baby out and you're flying man! The motorcycle-esque-brake setup was ideal and sensible in a bike like this. I really liked the low center of gravity, It made all the crazy Hase promotional material (you know X-games style riding) seem like a great idea! Responsive all around. You know I'm pretty much an out and out road frame guy but this bike was nimble and quick reminding me of my super-lean Raleigh Supercourse.. Just fun, fun fun. Like the HP Veloteknik Street Machine fun, only more primal. The Street Machine feels like a leather lined BMW, the Tagun is like a Porshe.
James
I think this tells you a little about the Tagun and a little about James.
James Anderson has been working this winter at bikes@vienna. Yesterday James assembled the first Hase Tagun that we've had come into the store. The Tagun has underseat steering, rear suspension, and it folds to fit more compactly in your vehicle or on Metro. James was out riding the Tagun in the parking lot and it was obvious that he was enjoying the bike so I suggested that he write a paragraph about his view of the Tagun.
Here's James' view:
Just wanted to write and express my thoughts on riding the Tagun I just built. Oh! What fun it is to ride! I know you asked me to keep the hyperbole to a minimum but I might have a really hard time. The highlights: A long wheelbase that feels like a short one, the SRAM dual drive gearing felt like the perfect set of ratios for the bike, I mean low down and dirty for the climbs and woah! widen that baby out and you're flying man! The motorcycle-esque-brake setup was ideal and sensible in a bike like this. I really liked the low center of gravity, It made all the crazy Hase promotional material (you know X-games style riding) seem like a great idea! Responsive all around. You know I'm pretty much an out and out road frame guy but this bike was nimble and quick reminding me of my super-lean Raleigh Supercourse.. Just fun, fun fun. Like the HP Veloteknik Street Machine fun, only more primal. The Street Machine feels like a leather lined BMW, the Tagun is like a Porshe.
James
I think this tells you a little about the Tagun and a little about James.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Your opinion..... Which icon suggests "recumbent"?
I would like your opinion. The adjacent graphics are meant to be icons suggesting a recumbent bike. Although there are four examples you'll note that the two at the top are the same shapes and the two on the bottom are the same shapes with the difference being the a positive or a negative.
Be part of my focus group, please and tell me which better symbolizes a recumbent bike in your opinion. Send me an email at john@bikesatvienna.com.
In the near future I will be asking about icons depicting the other styles of bikes in which we specialize. Yes, this is our tenth anniversary and I'm working on a new look.
Be part of my focus group, please and tell me which better symbolizes a recumbent bike in your opinion. Send me an email at john@bikesatvienna.com.
In the near future I will be asking about icons depicting the other styles of bikes in which we specialize. Yes, this is our tenth anniversary and I'm working on a new look.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Rans Dynamik Duo on order
I have struggled with the issue of "upright" tandems since we lost Burley as a supplier. I used a good deal of my time at InterBike investigating available tandems.
I keep coming back to the Rans Dynamik Duo. Our success last year in selling Crank Forward models has continued in 2008. People like the Crank Forward models. They are a wonderful combination of comfort and performance.
So Monday I ordered a Dynamik Duo. If you are interested in a tandem then I'd like for you to click on the adjacent fact sheet and read through it. We should have the Corvette red Dynamik Duo here late in February. Could it be a belated Valentine for the one you love?
I keep coming back to the Rans Dynamik Duo. Our success last year in selling Crank Forward models has continued in 2008. People like the Crank Forward models. They are a wonderful combination of comfort and performance.
So Monday I ordered a Dynamik Duo. If you are interested in a tandem then I'd like for you to click on the adjacent fact sheet and read through it. We should have the Corvette red Dynamik Duo here late in February. Could it be a belated Valentine for the one you love?
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
VTRCC's March 1st Casino Night
The Vienna-Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold their fifteenth Casino Night on Saturday, March 1. The site is the Westwood Country Club which is on the east edge of Vienna on Router 123. This is an enjoyable event which bikes@vienna supports with certificates for bike rentals.
Click on the adjacent poster for more information about the event.
Click on the adjacent poster for more information about the event.
Monday, February 04, 2008
In Praise of Dynamo Wheels
What you are looking at is the front end of my '93 Bridgestone XO-2, which I frequently use for commuting. While most of the bike is original, one big change I made was installing a dynamo (generator) hub on the front wheel, and a light to go with it. Specifically, the hub is from Shimano and the light is from a German company, Busch & Mueller. In a nutshell, the spinning wheel sends electricity to the light, thus negating the need for batteries. The advantage of the hub dynamo over the older style tire-driven style you may remember from days gone by, is that the mechanism is impervious to weather and requires no adjustment. The tire-drive units are prone to slippage, especially in the rain, are noisy, and less efficient than the dynohub.Now, some of you are saying "but the light goes off when you stop moving, doesn't it?" Well, the more observant might notice that the light is glowing (hard to tell in daylight) with the bike sitting still in this picture. That's because the light has a capacitor that charges while you ride, which powers an LED which comes on when you stop. Not all dyno lights have that, but it's a nice feature.
So, how much does this all cost? I knew you'd ask. Since it involves a new hub and building a wheel, it's true, it's not cheap. However, it's not out of line with other high quality lighting systems. Assuming you start from scratch, and have us build you a whole new wheel around the hub, you're looking at around $250 or so as a starting point. This gets you the high end Shimano hub, new double butted spokes, and a good quality, strong rim, as well as a dynamo headlight. Depending on specific options you choose, it could be a little lower perhaps, or higher. But a good investment for the long run. I can just hop on the bike and know I've got light without having to worry about batteries being dead or forgetting my light altogether.
Come on in and talk to me (Tim) about your options if you're interested. We have a demo wheel built up for you to look at and a couple of bikes in the shop that come with a dynohub stock. And there's a good chance that one of my 3 dynohub equipped bikes will be around.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Fun in the Service Area
Winter is a relatively slow time in the service area here at bikes@vienna, since many folks aren't riding their bikes much. On the other hand, because they aren't riding as much, we do get a few people who bring in bikes that are sometimes longer-term, more involved projects for us. While they are a lot of work, they can also often be among the more fun projects I tackle here.A good example of that is the bike you see to the left. It's a 1980s Alpine, a brand of bicycle made and sold right in the DC area back in the day. This one came in needing some serious TLC. The owner loved the bike and rode the heck out of it in days gone by, but over time his riding fell off, and the bike sat for a long time. He's back on bikes again, zooming around on a Rans "crank forward" design... but he really wanted his old friend back in riding form, so he brought it in to us. I have an affinity for classic steel road bikes, so this one appealed to me immediately, especially with the idea of "reconnecting" the owner with the bike he had enjoyed so much in the past.
It took a LOT of time and work and care, but it was worth every second of it when I saw the look on the owner's face after his first loop around the parking lot on the bike. Based on discussions with him, I had put a set of "butterfly" bars on the bike, and a new stem, to raise his hands up compared to the position on the old drop bars, and that seems to have really worked out well. A really fun project, and I'm looking forward to hearing more from the owner about his re-discovery and enjoyment of his bike.
Funny thing is, around the same time this bike came in, another fella brought in a '73 Motobecane Grand Jubilee, a really nice bike of the era, with a very similar story. Again, it was so much fun to work on the bike, and most of all to see the owner's face when he rode it after it was finished. It really gives me a lot of joy to help connect or re-connect folks with the joy of riding a fine bike.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Fairfax County Bike Map
Last night close to 50 individuals attended the Fairfax County Bike Map meeting at the Vienna Community Building. The Fairfax County Bike and Pedestrian coordinators as well as representatives of the consultants assisting with the map and representatives of the Virginia Department of Transportation all listening to cyclists suggestions for the map.
Charlie Strunk, the Fairfax County Bike Coordinator, (on the right) is shown in the photo receiving a suggestion.
Charlie Strunk, the Fairfax County Bike Coordinator, (on the right) is shown in the photo receiving a suggestion.
Five Boro Tour is 94 days away
I received the message from Bike New York that registration is now open for the Five Boro Tour. The Tour is the first Sunday in May. It features the opportunity to ride the streets of New York with 30,000 other cyclists. It is a treat to ride up through Central Park and through all the neighborhoods. Both Al Tyre and Tim Fricker from bikes@vienna are planning to participate in the ride this year.
This photo is of a group of us who rode in 2005. We stayed on Staten Island and this was us on the early morning ferry going to Manhattan for the start. This approach works because when you complete the ride you can get in your vehicle and begin your trip home. The individuals taking the ferry back to Manhattan in the afternoon have a long wait.
I recommend the Five Boro Bike Tour as an experience you'll remember for years to come. You can receive more information at http://www.bikenewyork.org/rides/fbbt/register.html
This photo is of a group of us who rode in 2005. We stayed on Staten Island and this was us on the early morning ferry going to Manhattan for the start. This approach works because when you complete the ride you can get in your vehicle and begin your trip home. The individuals taking the ferry back to Manhattan in the afternoon have a long wait.
I recommend the Five Boro Bike Tour as an experience you'll remember for years to come. You can receive more information at http://www.bikenewyork.org/rides/fbbt/register.html
Friday, January 25, 2008
Bike Map Meetings on January 29 -30
Next week there are two public information meetings for the Fairfax County Bicycle Map. Click on the poster on the right and you'll get a full sized version to review.
Creation of a Fairfax County Bike Map is an important project. The finished product will show the strengths and weaknesses for cycling in the county. There is a need for public input so I urge you to attend one of the two meetings.
Creation of a Fairfax County Bike Map is an important project. The finished product will show the strengths and weaknesses for cycling in the county. There is a need for public input so I urge you to attend one of the two meetings.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Basil Rear Basket Pet Transporter
This is the rear model for the Basil Pet Transporter. This unit needs a rear rack. It has the wire dome to keep your pet in the basket.
I would be quick to point out that the Pet Transporter can serve a dual purpose when it is time to run errands. Going to the grocery store? Image how much foodstuffs this basket can hold. Basil has a wonderful line up of baskets for the front and the rear of the bike. Stop by the store and see what we have.
I would be quick to point out that the Pet Transporter can serve a dual purpose when it is time to run errands. Going to the grocery store? Image how much foodstuffs this basket can hold. Basil has a wonderful line up of baskets for the front and the rear of the bike. Stop by the store and see what we have.
Basil Front Basket Pet Transporter
The Basil basket shown on the front of this Marin Belvedere is a bicycle accessory that Tim and I discovered at InterBike in September. Please note the wire cover. Yes, this basket is designed for a pet to accompany you on a bike ride. The basket sits on a strong platform and has a robust connecting system to keep your pet safe.
For years people have come to the store asking about baskets to have their dog, cat, rabbit, or parrot join them on a bike ride. Burley now has a couple of trailers for pets. These Basil baskets are going to provide a method for cyclist with smaller pets (no Java in that basket).
This photo was taken January 20. James is wearing a Santa hat because it was the warmest thing that he could find around the store. For years I have been known to keep the heat down in the store. I've been ribbed about my frugal approach to heating and cool, but now I can be thought of as a conservationist. It is so much kinder.
For years people have come to the store asking about baskets to have their dog, cat, rabbit, or parrot join them on a bike ride. Burley now has a couple of trailers for pets. These Basil baskets are going to provide a method for cyclist with smaller pets (no Java in that basket).
This photo was taken January 20. James is wearing a Santa hat because it was the warmest thing that he could find around the store. For years I have been known to keep the heat down in the store. I've been ribbed about my frugal approach to heating and cool, but now I can be thought of as a conservationist. It is so much kinder.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Planning and Dreaming
As you probably know, riding in Northern Virginia is comfortable even in cooler weather until we get some ice and snow. It's possible to ride in the ice and snow as Tim Fricker demonstrated yesterday with his studded tires and determination, but it is a test of will and skill.
When the snow falls I find myself planning for rides later in the year. The mail and internet bring me news of rides. I curl up in a big chair with a calendar and a map to see what is possible. Last year the Newbold Reunion (my mom's family) was held days after RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) so I attended the reunion and skipped the ride. This year I have RAGBRAI on every calendar that I maintain with July 20-26 bordered in red. We are going.
Bike Virginia (www.bikevirginia.org) has three rides to consider. In May the Tour de Chesapeake will be held in Mathews County May 16-18 (www.bikechesapeake.org). The Bike Virginia "The Crooked Road Tour" is scheduled for June 20-25 in the southwestern section of Virginia and the northeastern part of Tennessee. (On Bike Virginia in 2006 we spent more time in North Carolina than Virginia it seemed.) The River Ride (www.riverride.org) is held along the back roads of the Northern Neck during September 26-28.
I'm working on a list and I'll try to share it with you later this month.
When the snow falls I find myself planning for rides later in the year. The mail and internet bring me news of rides. I curl up in a big chair with a calendar and a map to see what is possible. Last year the Newbold Reunion (my mom's family) was held days after RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) so I attended the reunion and skipped the ride. This year I have RAGBRAI on every calendar that I maintain with July 20-26 bordered in red. We are going.
Bike Virginia (www.bikevirginia.org) has three rides to consider. In May the Tour de Chesapeake will be held in Mathews County May 16-18 (www.bikechesapeake.org). The Bike Virginia "The Crooked Road Tour" is scheduled for June 20-25 in the southwestern section of Virginia and the northeastern part of Tennessee. (On Bike Virginia in 2006 we spent more time in North Carolina than Virginia it seemed.) The River Ride (www.riverride.org) is held along the back roads of the Northern Neck during September 26-28.
I'm working on a list and I'll try to share it with you later this month.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
A First Ride.....Tuesday at 1:30
The Sunday paper is filled with ads for wonder products that help an individual lose weight. Yesterday I noted a steady stream of people going to the workout facility across Church Street from us. It is the time of year that we take stock in our health and begin new regiments of exercise.
I want to return to an old form of exercise for me.....riding a bicycle. I invite you to join me on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 at 1:30 for a ride and social outing that will depart from the store. I think it would be fun to ride to the start of the W&OD. Just above Columbia Pike there is a parallel trail to the W&OD which loops through Barcroft Park and leads to Point 0 down by the Beanie Weenie so this ride will have some exploring.
The ride will be about 25 miles, but the wonderful thing about the W&OD is that if someone gets tired they can just turnaround and head home. Also with the route I'm suggesting it is possible to use Metro for the return to Vienna if needed.
I'm suggesting a 1:30 start because the forecast is for rain in the morning. The temperatures are supposed to be in the mid 40s. Find your stocking cap that goes under your helmet. Look for those new cycling gloves. Fill up those water bottles. Pump up those tires and let's go for a ride.
I'll be at the store at 1 PM if someone needs to pump their tires. I'll see if I can have some hot cider so we can get a warm start.
See you New Year's Day.
I want to return to an old form of exercise for me.....riding a bicycle. I invite you to join me on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 at 1:30 for a ride and social outing that will depart from the store. I think it would be fun to ride to the start of the W&OD. Just above Columbia Pike there is a parallel trail to the W&OD which loops through Barcroft Park and leads to Point 0 down by the Beanie Weenie so this ride will have some exploring.
The ride will be about 25 miles, but the wonderful thing about the W&OD is that if someone gets tired they can just turnaround and head home. Also with the route I'm suggesting it is possible to use Metro for the return to Vienna if needed.
I'm suggesting a 1:30 start because the forecast is for rain in the morning. The temperatures are supposed to be in the mid 40s. Find your stocking cap that goes under your helmet. Look for those new cycling gloves. Fill up those water bottles. Pump up those tires and let's go for a ride.
I'll be at the store at 1 PM if someone needs to pump their tires. I'll see if I can have some hot cider so we can get a warm start.
See you New Year's Day.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
January & February We're Encouraging Appointments
We're going into the two months that are the least fun in my view. Certainly with good weather people will be riding bikes, but there is much less good weather so we are constricting our hours more. For the last few days of December, January, and February we plan to be open:
MONDAY 10:00–6:00
TUESDAY CLOSED
WEDNESDAY CLOSED
THURSDAY 10:00–6:00
FRIDAY 10:00–6:00
SATURDAY 10:00–5:00
SUNDAY 10:00–5:00
We will be pleased to stay open later or open earlier by appointment.
Allow me to say that again......We will be pleased to stay open later or open earlier by appointment. Those are not hollow words. We want your business, but it is not wise in the winter to have long hours when no one is coming into the store.
MONDAY 10:00–6:00
TUESDAY CLOSED
WEDNESDAY CLOSED
THURSDAY 10:00–6:00
FRIDAY 10:00–6:00
SATURDAY 10:00–5:00
SUNDAY 10:00–5:00
We will be pleased to stay open later or open earlier by appointment.
Allow me to say that again......We will be pleased to stay open later or open earlier by appointment. Those are not hollow words. We want your business, but it is not wise in the winter to have long hours when no one is coming into the store.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Duplex on Prius
It is necessary to be creative when you own a Duplex tandem and a Prius automobile. This photo confirms the creativity of one of the bikes@vienna customers.
In cooler (exchange for "slower") times I get a chance to look through things from earlier in the year. This photo once again captured my attention. Using a hitch mount and roof mount racks in concert this transportation.
In cooler (exchange for "slower") times I get a chance to look through things from earlier in the year. This photo once again captured my attention. Using a hitch mount and roof mount racks in concert this transportation.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Jeanette Jay TV Show
People ask what I do in the winter. They assume that it must be a slow time with the weather allowing fewer opportunities to ride a bike. Here in Northern Virginia people ride their bikes all year except when (like today) there is ice and snow on the roads and trails.
I do have fewer people coming to the store, but I go where the people are gathering. This photo is an example. From the home page you can tell that I'm trying to publicize the Draisin products. In November Michael Denu of Draisin and I took Draisin trikes to the World Congress on Disabilities at the Washington Convention Center. This weekend Ces and I will be in Richmond for the Caring Communities event at the Richmond Raceway called World of Possibilities Expo.
This photo is an interview being conducted for the Jeanette Jay TV Show which is aired in Buffalo, NY. bikes@vienna is the only Draisin outlet in the United States so I'll take publicity anywhere I can get it, but my primary focus for the next six months is the area a three hour drive from Vienna. From Virginia Beach to Philadelphia I'm looking for opportunities to show Draisin trikes,
I do have fewer people coming to the store, but I go where the people are gathering. This photo is an example. From the home page you can tell that I'm trying to publicize the Draisin products. In November Michael Denu of Draisin and I took Draisin trikes to the World Congress on Disabilities at the Washington Convention Center. This weekend Ces and I will be in Richmond for the Caring Communities event at the Richmond Raceway called World of Possibilities Expo.
This photo is an interview being conducted for the Jeanette Jay TV Show which is aired in Buffalo, NY. bikes@vienna is the only Draisin outlet in the United States so I'll take publicity anywhere I can get it, but my primary focus for the next six months is the area a three hour drive from Vienna. From Virginia Beach to Philadelphia I'm looking for opportunities to show Draisin trikes,
Monday, November 26, 2007
Holiday Stroll rescheduled for Monday, Dec 3rd
The rain forecast for this evening has resulted in the Holiday Stroll on Church Street being rescheduled for next Monday evening (6:30 PM to 9:00 PM on December 3). The schedule of events will be the same as posted in an earlier blog entry on this page. Please adjust your calendar and come join the fun next Monday.
Monday, November 19, 2007
$50 buys this Trek Folding Bike Bag
For a short time Trek sold folding bikes. They no longer have folding bikes for sale, but they do have bags left over. I have an attractive offer for you. You can have a Trek Folding Bike Bag for $50. That price is much less than Trek sold the bags for originally ($79.99) and is less than the cost of a Dahon El Bolso bags priced at $59.
The design of the bag is another plus. The bike sits in what I will call a tray. It is easy to simply set the folded bike on the tray. Then you slip the bag over the top and click the two parts together. The bag is large and I believe that even folding bikes which have handlebars that swing to the outside of the folded frame like the Dahon Speed Pro will fit into this bag. The bag also features storage pockets and extra straps for attaching things like helmets. There is also a nice area of padding on the side of the bag to cushion you from the bike.
The $50 price is at the store. We will gladly ship this bag to you for the $50 and the cost of UPS to your door. How many would you like?
You can view details of the bag at http://store.trekbikes.com/jump.jsp?itemID=352&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=Folding+Bike+Bag&bShopOnline=1&CatID=476
The design of the bag is another plus. The bike sits in what I will call a tray. It is easy to simply set the folded bike on the tray. Then you slip the bag over the top and click the two parts together. The bag is large and I believe that even folding bikes which have handlebars that swing to the outside of the folded frame like the Dahon Speed Pro will fit into this bag. The bag also features storage pockets and extra straps for attaching things like helmets. There is also a nice area of padding on the side of the bag to cushion you from the bike.
The $50 price is at the store. We will gladly ship this bag to you for the $50 and the cost of UPS to your door. How many would you like?
You can view details of the bag at http://store.trekbikes.com/jump.jsp?itemID=352&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=Folding+Bike+Bag&bShopOnline=1&CatID=476
Draisin Plus at WCD
My camera work needs some honing. You can tell that I had to work with this photo to enhance the image. I was able to get the important part of this image viewable..........the smiles. Those are real, honest to goodness smiles as this mother and daughter tested the Draisin Plus.
Over and over again as people test rode the Draisin products at the World Congress on Disabilities last week we had big smiles. We also had a high number of comments about the high quality of the Draisins. People marveled at the engineering and the adjustability to meet peoples' needs.
There is one place in America to test ride a Draisin and it is here at bikes@vienna.
Over and over again as people test rode the Draisin products at the World Congress on Disabilities last week we had big smiles. We also had a high number of comments about the high quality of the Draisins. People marveled at the engineering and the adjustability to meet peoples' needs.
There is one place in America to test ride a Draisin and it is here at bikes@vienna.
????? Scott and Bianchi frames CAUTION! Will Robinson
We are scratching our heads about and worrying a little that some one is trying to take advantage of people with an offer on ebay. The ebay offer tells about a small Northern Virginia bike store that is selling off Scott and Bianchi frames. The seller name is Vienna Bikes located in Vienna, VA.
We've received inquiries and we know nothing other than it is not bikes@vienna. We're worried that someone is trying to use a name similar to ours for an enterprise that is deceptive. We urge extreme caution.
We've received inquiries and we know nothing other than it is not bikes@vienna. We're worried that someone is trying to use a name similar to ours for an enterprise that is deceptive. We urge extreme caution.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Bikes for The Holidays
The photo shows a sample of the bikes for young people that we've brought in for the holidays. We have 16", 20", and 24" wheeled bikes to meet the needs of many children. Plus we've stocked up on 13" and 15" frames in the 26' wheel size. Yes, we're getting ready.
You may have read about our "Continuing Care" policy before, but just one more time...........
When you buy a bike from bikes@vienna we promise to do small repairs and adjustments for as long as you own the bike. As long as those repairs and adjustments are $20 or less then we only charge you for the parts. For a young person's bike this is a great asset.
Also bikes@vienna trys to help by considering trade-ins and serving as a drop off point for bikes going to Bikes For The World and to the Committee Helping Others.
You may have read about our "Continuing Care" policy before, but just one more time...........
When you buy a bike from bikes@vienna we promise to do small repairs and adjustments for as long as you own the bike. As long as those repairs and adjustments are $20 or less then we only charge you for the parts. For a young person's bike this is a great asset.
Also bikes@vienna trys to help by considering trade-ins and serving as a drop off point for bikes going to Bikes For The World and to the Committee Helping Others.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Holiday Stroll set for Monday, November 26th
The schedule for the Holiday Stroll on Church Street is set and available for your review. This event has grown each year as people enjoy the lighting of the holiday tree and the entertainment. Granted weather plays a role in the turnout, but people like Vienna's small town feel and respond by participating.
We're getting ready. I planted Alberta Spruce trees in the planters out front. Tim's lighting up the windows and I'm looking for the lights we hang along the front of the building. I've been slyly mentioning in Al's presence that I need a Santa Claus for the event to no avail.
Please put the Holiday Stroll on your calendar and come visit us.
We're getting ready. I planted Alberta Spruce trees in the planters out front. Tim's lighting up the windows and I'm looking for the lights we hang along the front of the building. I've been slyly mentioning in Al's presence that I need a Santa Claus for the event to no avail.
Please put the Holiday Stroll on your calendar and come visit us.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Cy and the KidzTandem
Grandson Cy is visiting and so I took him around on the Kidz Tandem. This photo shows the gray seat that we can put on to take a younger rider for a ride. Cy is intrigued with the bell and you can see my hands as I adjust a helmet to put on him.
It is a perfect bike for a grandfather to ride with his two year old grandson.
It is a perfect bike for a grandfather to ride with his two year old grandson.
Friday, October 26, 2007
In the halls of Congress
The U.S. House of Representative held their Green Expo yesterday and bikes@vienna participated. Our participation lead to a couple of unique experiences for me. I had to take the bikes in the bikes@vienna van to be bomb scanned on Wednesday morning. The Capitol Police use dogs to sniff out bombs and I'm there wondering if the dog will react to Java's (our chocolate lab shop dog) scent which has to be very apparent. Nope not then or not on Thursday when they screened the van to pick up the bikes.
After unloading the bikes and promotional material at the Longworth Building I had to move things through the tunnel to the Cannon Building. How do you move bicycles, a tricycle, and a trailer loaded with catalogs? Well I hook the trailer to a bike and ride it. I'm wearing my bright orange helmet, bikes@vienna uniform (t-shirt and jeans) and a big smile as I pedal first through the tunnel and then down the third floor corridor of the Cannon House Office Building. It was fun! Most people that saw me would initially look surprised and then get a big smile.
On Thursday Bruce enjoyed riding through the halls of Congress while I retrieved the van and went through security. He said people had a similiar reaction to seeing him ride.
I see a new opportunity to speed up government......those hallways are long so allow people to ride bikes. I suppose that you could allow some people to use roller skates, but I don't sell roller skates.
After unloading the bikes and promotional material at the Longworth Building I had to move things through the tunnel to the Cannon Building. How do you move bicycles, a tricycle, and a trailer loaded with catalogs? Well I hook the trailer to a bike and ride it. I'm wearing my bright orange helmet, bikes@vienna uniform (t-shirt and jeans) and a big smile as I pedal first through the tunnel and then down the third floor corridor of the Cannon House Office Building. It was fun! Most people that saw me would initially look surprised and then get a big smile.
On Thursday Bruce enjoyed riding through the halls of Congress while I retrieved the van and went through security. He said people had a similiar reaction to seeing him ride.
I see a new opportunity to speed up government......those hallways are long so allow people to ride bikes. I suppose that you could allow some people to use roller skates, but I don't sell roller skates.
Vienna's Vibrant Halloween Parade
Wednesday night I participated in the Vienna Halloween Parade twice. I marched with the Rotary Club of Vienna in position 17 and rode with the bikes@vienna entry at position 84. It was double the fun.
The rain fell off and on during the parade. I imaged that the crowd would be very small and I was very wrong. People lined Maple Avenue under umbrellas, pop-up tents, and tarps. This event is a signature of this communities' effort to be a small town. Rain was not going to keep people away. Rain that had been scarce for so long was almost embraced. I did not hear any comments about "too bad it's raining". The opposite reaction I did hear----"isn't this rain wonderful".
The Rotary Club was behind a group of librarians with book carts. We moved out on to Maple and there was a whistle. This was not just a group of librarians pushing book carts! It was a precision drill team! I laughed many times during the parade as the whistle would sound and the group would perform. The spectators at the curb would always break out in laughter and hoots of joy.
The librarians inspired our Rotary Group to adlib a routine using umbrellas. We were far from coordinated, but by the time we reached the reviewing stand we were getting better. We need to watch a video clip of Gene Kelly doing "Singing in the Rain" if we do this again. We need to watch the clip over and over.
I hustled back to the store to join our small band of riders and we navigated the back streets to get to the van that was holding our place in the parade. We then made the trip down Maple Avenue behind a high energy performing troop. It is fun to ride and wave to people you know. It is always a joy.
We had a dozen riders. I thank each of them for helping me to publicize bikes@vienna.
The rain fell off and on during the parade. I imaged that the crowd would be very small and I was very wrong. People lined Maple Avenue under umbrellas, pop-up tents, and tarps. This event is a signature of this communities' effort to be a small town. Rain was not going to keep people away. Rain that had been scarce for so long was almost embraced. I did not hear any comments about "too bad it's raining". The opposite reaction I did hear----"isn't this rain wonderful".
The Rotary Club was behind a group of librarians with book carts. We moved out on to Maple and there was a whistle. This was not just a group of librarians pushing book carts! It was a precision drill team! I laughed many times during the parade as the whistle would sound and the group would perform. The spectators at the curb would always break out in laughter and hoots of joy.
The librarians inspired our Rotary Group to adlib a routine using umbrellas. We were far from coordinated, but by the time we reached the reviewing stand we were getting better. We need to watch a video clip of Gene Kelly doing "Singing in the Rain" if we do this again. We need to watch the clip over and over.
I hustled back to the store to join our small band of riders and we navigated the back streets to get to the van that was holding our place in the parade. We then made the trip down Maple Avenue behind a high energy performing troop. It is fun to ride and wave to people you know. It is always a joy.
We had a dozen riders. I thank each of them for helping me to publicize bikes@vienna.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Kidz Tandem now being rented
The Rushforth family was the first to rent the Kidz Tandem that we received on Thursday. It is a tandem that I saw at InterBike and ordered. I rent it for the same rates as the upright tandems.
Note the smiles and the position of the young person being in front. Ty Rushforth hoped that the experience would give his daughter the confidence to ride without training wheels. She was reluctant to ride the tandem at first, but warmed to the experience and when they got back from their family ride she was glowing with excitement. For more information about the Kidz Tandem go to Kidz Tandem
Note the smiles and the position of the young person being in front. Ty Rushforth hoped that the experience would give his daughter the confidence to ride without training wheels. She was reluctant to ride the tandem at first, but warmed to the experience and when they got back from their family ride she was glowing with excitement. For more information about the Kidz Tandem go to Kidz Tandem
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Interbike 2007
John and Tim are attending the Interbike 2007 bike expo held each year in Las Vegas, NV. That's the main reason we're closed today. They will likely have some tales to tell about the latest recumbent and trike news from the show. In the meantime the Recumbent Blog has some great photos of the many new bikes on display at the show, including the Grasshopper FX, the folding short wheelbase recumbent from HP Velotechnik. Ever since Bike Friday stopped production of the SatRDay folding recumbent there have been few options in this category. There are many new offerings from Rans and others as well. For additional info on recumbents at the show see the 'BentRider Online site.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Buchanan Railcar Inn
Ces, my wife, and I stayed at the Buchanan Railcar Inn earlier this month. The rail car is an 85 foot long coach with beautiful paneled walls and lots of character. The living room is 45 feet long and tastefully decorated.
I grew up around trains. My father worked for thirty-eight years for what was the CB&Q which became the Burlington Northern and today is the Burlington Northern Santa Fe. As a kid I'd go with him and ride from Centerville, IA to Keokuk, IA or Fort Madison, IA to Bloomfield, IA. Yep, they'd allow me to sit in the engine and blow the whistle as we neared crossings. It was pretty heady stuff for a youngster.
Ces and I enjoyed the experience of having supper with Janie Harris and her husband, Will, who own the Buchanan Railcar Inn. Will is in the business of moving large objects like rail cars and Janie is in the real estate business. They combined their skills and in a short period of time they located the property, prepared the site, moved the rail car, set up the utilities, and completed the decorating. It was a terrific story.
I recommend that if you are traveling to southwestern Virginia you consider a stay at the Buchanan Railcar Inn. It's a delightful experience. If you're a railroad enthusiast then it will be even more enjoyable because the Inn is near a working line and the trains keep coming passed.
For more information go to www.buchananrailcar.com You'll enjoy looking at the photos.
I grew up around trains. My father worked for thirty-eight years for what was the CB&Q which became the Burlington Northern and today is the Burlington Northern Santa Fe. As a kid I'd go with him and ride from Centerville, IA to Keokuk, IA or Fort Madison, IA to Bloomfield, IA. Yep, they'd allow me to sit in the engine and blow the whistle as we neared crossings. It was pretty heady stuff for a youngster.
Ces and I enjoyed the experience of having supper with Janie Harris and her husband, Will, who own the Buchanan Railcar Inn. Will is in the business of moving large objects like rail cars and Janie is in the real estate business. They combined their skills and in a short period of time they located the property, prepared the site, moved the rail car, set up the utilities, and completed the decorating. It was a terrific story.
I recommend that if you are traveling to southwestern Virginia you consider a stay at the Buchanan Railcar Inn. It's a delightful experience. If you're a railroad enthusiast then it will be even more enjoyable because the Inn is near a working line and the trains keep coming passed.
For more information go to www.buchananrailcar.com You'll enjoy looking at the photos.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Piney Branch bridge opens
We are happy to report that the bridge over the Piney Branch that was damaged during a storm last year has finally been repaired. Now you no longer must ride along the gravel trail and temporary steel bridge to cross Piney Branch. It was a dangerous detour due to loose sand and gravel at times, although the park authority tried to keep the surface firm with spot repairs. Our rental bikes will have less dirt on their frames and drivetrains and there should be fewer pinch flats. Our trike owners are also very happy about the repairs.
The past week has been some of the best riding weather of the year. If you haven't been out for a ride, now is the time to enjoy the brisk, clear Fall air.
The past week has been some of the best riding weather of the year. If you haven't been out for a ride, now is the time to enjoy the brisk, clear Fall air.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Two dates we'll be closed in the next month -- 9/27 & 10/8
We will have two days in the next several weeks that we will be closed.
Thursday, September 27 the store will be closed while Tim Fricker and I attend InterBike. InterBike is where many bike companies bring their latest and greatest for a four day event in Las Vegas. We'll be talking to the many companies that we do business with and some companies that we'd like to be representing.
Monday, October 8th the store will be closed for what is the Federal observation of Columbus day. Why Columbus Day when we've been open for lots of other Federal Holidays? Tim is attending a family event in Long Island. I'm driving from the Mississippi River to Virginia after an event.
I apologize in advance to those of you that come to the store those days only to find us closed. We'll try to publicize these closings to reduce the chance of this happening.
Thursday, September 27 the store will be closed while Tim Fricker and I attend InterBike. InterBike is where many bike companies bring their latest and greatest for a four day event in Las Vegas. We'll be talking to the many companies that we do business with and some companies that we'd like to be representing.
Monday, October 8th the store will be closed for what is the Federal observation of Columbus day. Why Columbus Day when we've been open for lots of other Federal Holidays? Tim is attending a family event in Long Island. I'm driving from the Mississippi River to Virginia after an event.
I apologize in advance to those of you that come to the store those days only to find us closed. We'll try to publicize these closings to reduce the chance of this happening.
Monday, September 10, 2007
IMPORTANT: CO2 inflation device voluntary recall
We have received from Genuine Innovations a notice of their voluntary recall of:
Genuine Innovations Second Wind MTB: Part Numbers 2525, 2525-0, and 3519
Wrench Force Two Shot: Part Numbers 84995, 84995-1, and 80383
The problem described is "The Unit can shatter while under pressure when inflating tires, This poses a risk of injury, such as bruising, lacerations, and ringing in the ears."
Genuine Innovations will provide replacement heads for these devices. Any of these devices shipped since the first of this year have the new head.
If you have a CO2 device I suggest that you look at it to determine if it is a model impacted by this recall. If you have an affected model then take it back to the store from which you purchased it.
Genuine Innovations Second Wind MTB: Part Numbers 2525, 2525-0, and 3519
Wrench Force Two Shot: Part Numbers 84995, 84995-1, and 80383
The problem described is "The Unit can shatter while under pressure when inflating tires, This poses a risk of injury, such as bruising, lacerations, and ringing in the ears."
Genuine Innovations will provide replacement heads for these devices. Any of these devices shipped since the first of this year have the new head.
If you have a CO2 device I suggest that you look at it to determine if it is a model impacted by this recall. If you have an affected model then take it back to the store from which you purchased it.
Friday, September 07, 2007
A typical Friday morning
Tim and I were enjoying a fairly typical Friday morning when this photo was snapped of us. I've just barely had my eyes open. Tim was sharing a bit of humor. SNAP, we were caught.
This is an invitation for you to visit us. I will try to have my eyes open. Tim will have an entertaining story. Most importantly we will work to provide good service and help you get out on your bicycle. A bike ride is an important activity. We understand that fact.
This is an invitation for you to visit us. I will try to have my eyes open. Tim will have an entertaining story. Most importantly we will work to provide good service and help you get out on your bicycle. A bike ride is an important activity. We understand that fact.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Riding in Italy
I sell bikes to people and many times I don't know how they use them and whether they are enjoying them. I am always grateful when I receive information about how people are using and enjoying their bikes.
This photo is one of several that Sean Luke sent me of the adventure that he and the lovely lady in his life are having in Italy. They came in and bought two Dahon Helios folders. They brought in suitcases that they had and with some creativity they were able to pack the bikes. My memory is that they plan to leave the bikes in Italy for their use in future years.
In this age of digital cameras and electronic delivery, it is easier to share information about your adventures. Why not send me a photo of you enjoying your bike(s) that you bought at bikes@vienna.
Sean, thank you so much. I can tell by your photos that you had fun on your folding bike in Italy.
What would you do on a folding bike?
This photo is one of several that Sean Luke sent me of the adventure that he and the lovely lady in his life are having in Italy. They came in and bought two Dahon Helios folders. They brought in suitcases that they had and with some creativity they were able to pack the bikes. My memory is that they plan to leave the bikes in Italy for their use in future years.
In this age of digital cameras and electronic delivery, it is easier to share information about your adventures. Why not send me a photo of you enjoying your bike(s) that you bought at bikes@vienna.
Sean, thank you so much. I can tell by your photos that you had fun on your folding bike in Italy.
What would you do on a folding bike?
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Just a block and one half from the Vienna Caboose
This Labor Day holiday it again became apparent that bikes@vienna is hidden from the public. I gave directions to the store multiple times and I heard others doing the same. The phone conversation most times begins with an individual on a cell phone asking "Where are you?"
So I thought it might be helpful to use some local landmarks to supplement the fairly good directions on our webpage which is www.bikesatvienna.com.
The Vienna Caboose is an easily identified landmark right next to the W&OD Trail. If you can see the Caboose then you are on Church, Dominion, or Mill Streets. You need to get on Church Street and go south (which is also away from the Presbyterian Church). You'll go through the stop sign at the corner of Center and Church and one half block up on your left is a brick house with a green sign in front which is Terra Christa. bikes@vienna is behind Terra Christa. If you pass the Blackeyed Susan, Great Harvest Bread, or Neilsen Frozen Custard then you have gone too far. If you're across from the Post Office then you've really gone too far.
Okay, let's go back to the Caboose. We ride by it all the time and perhaps you've not stopped and stood on the platform to peer in the window. A caboose was a key component of the American railroad industry for probably a century. Two crew members would travel in the caboose as the eyes at the rear of the train. Originally these crew members would use laterns to communicate with the front end crew. Today cabooses are not used for typical train operation. You see cabooses as parts of parks, business locations, bed and breakfasts, cabins on acreages and used as landmarks.
bikes@vienna is just one and one half blocks from the Vienna Caboose.
So I thought it might be helpful to use some local landmarks to supplement the fairly good directions on our webpage which is www.bikesatvienna.com.
The Vienna Caboose is an easily identified landmark right next to the W&OD Trail. If you can see the Caboose then you are on Church, Dominion, or Mill Streets. You need to get on Church Street and go south (which is also away from the Presbyterian Church). You'll go through the stop sign at the corner of Center and Church and one half block up on your left is a brick house with a green sign in front which is Terra Christa. bikes@vienna is behind Terra Christa. If you pass the Blackeyed Susan, Great Harvest Bread, or Neilsen Frozen Custard then you have gone too far. If you're across from the Post Office then you've really gone too far.
Okay, let's go back to the Caboose. We ride by it all the time and perhaps you've not stopped and stood on the platform to peer in the window. A caboose was a key component of the American railroad industry for probably a century. Two crew members would travel in the caboose as the eyes at the rear of the train. Originally these crew members would use laterns to communicate with the front end crew. Today cabooses are not used for typical train operation. You see cabooses as parts of parks, business locations, bed and breakfasts, cabins on acreages and used as landmarks.
bikes@vienna is just one and one half blocks from the Vienna Caboose.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Doing the things that you should have done yesterday
The summer has sailed passed. I came in today with the intention of clearing out the basement and getting the used and consignment bikes organized. I am in that process and I'm lowering prices on the bikes that have not sold. I am also taking photos to list bikes that have come in and escaped my attention until now.
Please look at our used bike blog http://bavused.blogspot.com/ There are lots of recumbents plus some quality uprights.
Please look at our used bike blog http://bavused.blogspot.com/ There are lots of recumbents plus some quality uprights.
Ryan surrounded by red
Ryan Bannon has started helping in the store several days a week. I captured him early Sunday morning as he switched a tube at the Reston Bike Club's Century ride.
Ryan is not normally that red. It is a combination of the tent and banner, I think.
Ryan is not normally that red. It is a combination of the tent and banner, I think.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Ponder this
In an email inquirying about one of our used recumbents was this nugget of information which is worth pondering.
100 bicycles can be manufactured for the energy and materials it takes to build a medium-size car.
---Worldwatch Institute
100 bicycles can be manufactured for the energy and materials it takes to build a medium-size car.
---Worldwatch Institute
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
I'M READY for our concert on the Town Green
Friday, August 24th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM bikes@ vienna is sponsoring the concert on the Vienna Town Green. I'm promoting the idea of people riding their bikes to the concert. Call it a "Ride In" if you will. The Town Green is next to the W&OD Trail between Maple Avenue and Church Street. It is a perfect venue to reach by bike.
I want to set aside some space near the performance space to park trikes so people can sit on their trikes and enjoy the music. I'm trying to set up a parking area for other bikes so people can leave their bikes and not worry about them.
The musical entertainment for this concert is a group called the NiteHawks. They are a swing band that features the music of Glenn Miller. As you may know, Glenn Miller was an Iowan. His music has proven timeless and I'm certain you'll have a good time if you join us on August 24th.
Now as the photo indicates I'm just waiting for the concert. Please mark your calendar, tell your friends about it and ride your bike to it because it is going to be fun.
I want to set aside some space near the performance space to park trikes so people can sit on their trikes and enjoy the music. I'm trying to set up a parking area for other bikes so people can leave their bikes and not worry about them.
The musical entertainment for this concert is a group called the NiteHawks. They are a swing band that features the music of Glenn Miller. As you may know, Glenn Miller was an Iowan. His music has proven timeless and I'm certain you'll have a good time if you join us on August 24th.
Now as the photo indicates I'm just waiting for the concert. Please mark your calendar, tell your friends about it and ride your bike to it because it is going to be fun.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Wishing I was there
I woke up this morning in my bed on Moorefield Road in Vienna and wished I was somewhere half a country west of here. I knew that in Rock Rapids, Iowa the sleepy beginnings of the day would be turning to excitement and adrenalin as thousands of cyclist began making their ways to the lines of port-a-potties, began folding their tents, began pumping their tires, and finally began riding their bikes. This morning the riders would follow the signs to the highway and the week of RAGBRAI would begin.
I took Java out for her morning walk, noting the temperatures in the low 60s here in Virginia. I’d have my jacket on to start this morning I thought. My friend Gene Crosby would be riding close by and describing the day’s route in great detail. Gene studies subjects and then kindly shares the information. We can ride for six or more hours with Gene having lots to share. RAGBRAI is the only time we spend together each year. We have a lot to catch up on.
I cooked eggs for breakfast thinking about a breakfast burrito from the Farm Boys. They generally set up about fifteen to twenty miles into the route. Yes, there are other alternatives: Mama Rafael’s, Chris Cakes, and last year the counterfeit Farm Boyz, but the Farm Boys have great breakfast burritos and they set up about where we need a break. We sit down to eat and watch the parade of cyclists.
In northwestern Iowa today people will be sitting in lawn chairs watching that parade. They’ll start out being wrapped in blankets. They’ll drink coffee, lemonade, and then beer. They’ll wave. They’ll call out “where are you from?” They’ll offer water, shade and mechanical help. They’ll point at the costumes that some riders wear. They’ll marvel at the bikes, trikes, quads, and an occasional unicycle. They’ll wonder why all these people are riding passed and they’ll watch for Lance Armstrong because Lance is riding all week this year.
Yup, I’m missing it.
The photo is from the first day of RAGBRAI last year. Gene is wearing his yellow jacket. Daughter Sara and I have a bright spinnie on the back of the Barcroft Columbia.
I took Java out for her morning walk, noting the temperatures in the low 60s here in Virginia. I’d have my jacket on to start this morning I thought. My friend Gene Crosby would be riding close by and describing the day’s route in great detail. Gene studies subjects and then kindly shares the information. We can ride for six or more hours with Gene having lots to share. RAGBRAI is the only time we spend together each year. We have a lot to catch up on.
I cooked eggs for breakfast thinking about a breakfast burrito from the Farm Boys. They generally set up about fifteen to twenty miles into the route. Yes, there are other alternatives: Mama Rafael’s, Chris Cakes, and last year the counterfeit Farm Boyz, but the Farm Boys have great breakfast burritos and they set up about where we need a break. We sit down to eat and watch the parade of cyclists.
In northwestern Iowa today people will be sitting in lawn chairs watching that parade. They’ll start out being wrapped in blankets. They’ll drink coffee, lemonade, and then beer. They’ll wave. They’ll call out “where are you from?” They’ll offer water, shade and mechanical help. They’ll point at the costumes that some riders wear. They’ll marvel at the bikes, trikes, quads, and an occasional unicycle. They’ll wonder why all these people are riding passed and they’ll watch for Lance Armstrong because Lance is riding all week this year.
Yup, I’m missing it.
The photo is from the first day of RAGBRAI last year. Gene is wearing his yellow jacket. Daughter Sara and I have a bright spinnie on the back of the Barcroft Columbia.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
IMPORTANT: Thule Hitch Rack Recall
Yesterday afternoon I received an email message telling me that Thule
is doing a voluntary recall of hitch mount racks manufactured prior
to 2007. These are the racks that slide into the receiver hitch under
the rear bumper of a vehicle. These are not the racks that sit on the
trunk or hatch of a vehicle and attaches with Thule's blue straps.
The email said that we are not to sell the racks if we have any.
Okay we won't sell them. It points out that the problem is that a
pinch point exists at the base of the arms of the rack. People have
suffered injuries as they released the pin and allowed the arms to
fold down which made the rack more compact when not in use.
Thule provided no indication of how they are going to address the
issue with purchasers of the rack. They reported that they are
working with federal authorities to receive approval for a recall
campaign.
Okay........if you have a Hitching Post Pro (934, 934XT, 935, 935XT,
936, 936XT, 937, 937XT, 951, 951XT), Expressway (995, 995XT, 996,
996XT) Trailblazer (998, 998XT) then you'll be hearing from
bikes@vienna in the next week. The message will be DO NOT FOLD THE
ARMS DOWN ON YOUR RACK. If you don't fold the arms down then you
won't get your finger in the pinch point.
I know you will have all kinds of questions. I do not have the
answers. I do not know when I will have the answers. My intention
is to make sure that the many customers who have this type of rack
know of the danger and create a contact list that will let us share
information as it becomes available. I'll also provide this list to
Thule so they can make contacts.
One more thing.......I noted in my first paragraph that these are
hitch mount racks manufactured prior to 2007. The Thule Revolver,
Ridgeline, and Roadway models manufactured for this year feature
the "Hitch Switch" folding arms --- which eliminates this pinch
point.
is doing a voluntary recall of hitch mount racks manufactured prior
to 2007. These are the racks that slide into the receiver hitch under
the rear bumper of a vehicle. These are not the racks that sit on the
trunk or hatch of a vehicle and attaches with Thule's blue straps.
The email said that we are not to sell the racks if we have any.
Okay we won't sell them. It points out that the problem is that a
pinch point exists at the base of the arms of the rack. People have
suffered injuries as they released the pin and allowed the arms to
fold down which made the rack more compact when not in use.
Thule provided no indication of how they are going to address the
issue with purchasers of the rack. They reported that they are
working with federal authorities to receive approval for a recall
campaign.
Okay........if you have a Hitching Post Pro (934, 934XT, 935, 935XT,
936, 936XT, 937, 937XT, 951, 951XT), Expressway (995, 995XT, 996,
996XT) Trailblazer (998, 998XT) then you'll be hearing from
bikes@vienna in the next week. The message will be DO NOT FOLD THE
ARMS DOWN ON YOUR RACK. If you don't fold the arms down then you
won't get your finger in the pinch point.
I know you will have all kinds of questions. I do not have the
answers. I do not know when I will have the answers. My intention
is to make sure that the many customers who have this type of rack
know of the danger and create a contact list that will let us share
information as it becomes available. I'll also provide this list to
Thule so they can make contacts.
One more thing.......I noted in my first paragraph that these are
hitch mount racks manufactured prior to 2007. The Thule Revolver,
Ridgeline, and Roadway models manufactured for this year feature
the "Hitch Switch" folding arms --- which eliminates this pinch
point.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Ketts Used on Tandem
Hase Ketts can be hooked in tandem as shown in this photo. There is a connector which links the fork of the second trike to the frame of the lead trike. It is a terrific alternative for people who enjoy riding together, but want the flexibility to ride separately. Think of the possibilities.
We are stocking the Ketts so come take a test ride. We'd need some extra notice if you want to test ride with the trikes hooked in tandem. If you can imagine, the Hase people hooked 63 Ketts to establish a world record. Let's see a Kett is probably five foot long so 63 would streach the length of a football field. Think of the organization to get all those Ketts connected and all the riders on them at once. I don't want to think about it.
We are stocking the Ketts so come take a test ride. We'd need some extra notice if you want to test ride with the trikes hooked in tandem. If you can imagine, the Hase people hooked 63 Ketts to establish a world record. Let's see a Kett is probably five foot long so 63 would streach the length of a football field. Think of the organization to get all those Ketts connected and all the riders on them at once. I don't want to think about it.
Now in America, Draisin
We unloaded a container from Germany on Wednesday. The photo shows fourteen Draisin bikes lined up in the parking lot of the Stor-All. We have Draisin Plus, Captain Duo, Relax, and Twister. These are all speciality bikes focused on the needs of indivduals with disabilities.
There will be more entries appearing here about bikes@vienna selling and distributing these bikes in the United States. It is a new venture and we have hope that it will be fun and exciting.
There will be more entries appearing here about bikes@vienna selling and distributing these bikes in the United States. It is a new venture and we have hope that it will be fun and exciting.
Appearing today in Batesville
It is early morning on what looks to be a nice June day. The big white bikes@vienna van is headed south to Batesville. Matt will be providing mechanical help for an MS 150 ride which will attract people from the Charlottesville area and beyond. Six hundred cyclists will ride on a hot day to raise money to fight MS. Thank you to each and every one of them.
As Matt and I went through the checklist of supplies I answered a question that might have been in his mind about why we'd sign on to support a ride two hours away. I told him, "If someone asks why you're in Batesville all the way from Vienna, tell them it's because the guy who owns the store has a daughter and she has MS."
Oldest daughter, Jessica, is shown on the right with her daughter, Mira, at Christmas time. She participated in an MS walk in Seattle last month and raised a nice sum. Our entire family has a heightened interest in getting more funding for MS research. So in the early hours of this day the big white van speeds south to Batesville.
Tomorrow we will help locally with the ADA Cure de Tour's Family Loop that comes into Vienna. Is there a family tie there? Yes, but that is another story. Thank you to all the cyclist who ride to raise money. Thank you to the people walking this weekend for the Relay for Life. We need to focus more money to combat the dreaded diseases which we all fear.
As Matt and I went through the checklist of supplies I answered a question that might have been in his mind about why we'd sign on to support a ride two hours away. I told him, "If someone asks why you're in Batesville all the way from Vienna, tell them it's because the guy who owns the store has a daughter and she has MS."
Oldest daughter, Jessica, is shown on the right with her daughter, Mira, at Christmas time. She participated in an MS walk in Seattle last month and raised a nice sum. Our entire family has a heightened interest in getting more funding for MS research. So in the early hours of this day the big white van speeds south to Batesville.
Tomorrow we will help locally with the ADA Cure de Tour's Family Loop that comes into Vienna. Is there a family tie there? Yes, but that is another story. Thank you to all the cyclist who ride to raise money. Thank you to the people walking this weekend for the Relay for Life. We need to focus more money to combat the dreaded diseases which we all fear.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
We have the Burley Tail Wagon for sale and rental
Java and I test rode the new Burley Tail Wagon last week. The Tail Wagon is specifically for pets under fifty pounds. Now I must admit that Java exceeds the weight limit on the Tail Wagon by almost twenty pounds so we did test it.
It passed the test.
Soon after I opened the store nine years ago I had a customer come in and ask to rent a Burley trailer to transport a pet. The requests have continued and although we rent Burley trailers I have been reluctant to rent for pet rides because we rent the trailers for children. Some children are allergic to animals so I felt I couldn't rent for both uses.
The Tail Wagon provides the solution. I now have the Tail Wagon for rent to pet owners with pets under fifty pounds. (Yes, I know I put a sixty-six pound Labrador in it, but it's my store.) I'll be charging the same rates as charged for kid trailers and I will apply your rental towards the purchase of a Tail Wagon if you make a decision to buy within sixty days.
Come rent and then buy a Tail Wagon.
It passed the test.
Soon after I opened the store nine years ago I had a customer come in and ask to rent a Burley trailer to transport a pet. The requests have continued and although we rent Burley trailers I have been reluctant to rent for pet rides because we rent the trailers for children. Some children are allergic to animals so I felt I couldn't rent for both uses.
The Tail Wagon provides the solution. I now have the Tail Wagon for rent to pet owners with pets under fifty pounds. (Yes, I know I put a sixty-six pound Labrador in it, but it's my store.) I'll be charging the same rates as charged for kid trailers and I will apply your rental towards the purchase of a Tail Wagon if you make a decision to buy within sixty days.
Come rent and then buy a Tail Wagon.