Gothamist has an update on the closing of the Brooklyn Banks... Doesn't look good. Some people are even saying it shouldn't be re-opened as a park!
The city has made up its mind. Come December, the Brooklyn Banks will be boarded up and transformed into a construction area for the Brooklyn Bridge rehabilitation project, Scott Gastel, spokesperson for the city Dept. of Transportation told Downtown Express.
Read the rest of the story here.
click to enlarge
Nick from Charge and Surface just sent me an exclusive sneak peek of some preliminary shots of the forthcoming Surface clothing line. Included are images of their hoody, jersey, jacket, pants and all the color options. Above is their hoodie. It's made of a breathable, stretchy (in both directions), water resistant tough material they called "snugflex", it is brushed on the inside like fleece. Lycra cuffs... Nice tight hood, brown or black and a price of £59.99.
click to enlarge
The windbreakers are water resistant, made of Pertex. Lycra internal cuffs. Packs down into small pocket. They're available in purple, lime and black and will retail at £49.99.
click to enlarge
The jerseys come in short sleeve and long sleeve. They feature a pocket in the back and longer sleeves. Perfect on or off the bike.
click to enlarge
The "Hydrophobic" Wool Jacket is the most technical garment, taped seams, fully waterproof, storm flaps, lycra cuffs. But made to look fairly casual with no zip seals. Gray wool is the only color available and retails at £119.99. The pants are made from a water-resistant material and are quick drying with a slim cut. They retail at £54.99 and come in gray or black. The same material is being used in their shorts, which retail at £49.99.
click to enlarge
Surface's clothes come in various colors.
For more information, keep watch on Charge's site and follow them on Twitter!
Previously:
Charge Surface
BFF polo tournament- paris 2009 -clip HD (v.02) from Uolmo on Vimeo.
Mr. Brent Barbur from the Bicycle Film Festival just sent me over a video from the 2009 Paris BFF Polo Tournament. Footage looks great and everyone had a blast I'm sure. I still think traveling to other cities to meet other cyclists, ride around and coming together for a communal event is one of the best things to do as a cyclist. Whether it's polo, doing tricks or group rides, our community is worldwide and the BFF helps facilitate that. Great job on the video guys!
Remember, the 2009 Bicycle Film Festival is making its way over to Denver next. Be sure to check it out!
Fixed Gear Extravaganza just got in their stickers. Pretty sharp. Follow the Extravaganza here.
Alexis of Thought You Knew sent me some information on their forthcoming TyK Calender for 2010. The calender features Ladies PinUps and Men's SuperHeroes as the theme and gets pretty creative as you can see from these teaser pics.
All proceeds of the sales go to support the Sadie Hawkins Style Ride via Chicago Women's Health Center. More info here.
For more details on the calender, head over to Thought You Knew
Charge's Surface clothing line is getting closer to production. Tom just got some samples of the soft goods in the mail and is really stoked on them. He's one of 3 riders for urban cyclist clothing line. The other riders are Chris Akrigg and Juliet Elliot. Future riders to come and more information to follow.
The only pics I could find are swiped from Bike Magic and for now, the above picture will do!
Here are some details that Bike Magic doesn't have, for those interested.
1. "Hydrophobic" Wool Jacket:
Colours: Grey wool only
Sizes: XS-XXL
RRP £119.99
2. Pertex Windcheater Jackets
Colours: Purple, Lime, Black
Sizes: XS-XXL
RRP £49.99
3. "Snugflex" Tech. Zip Hoodie
Colours: Brown, Black
Sizes: XS-XXL
RRP £59.99
4. "Liquistretch" Tech Short
Colours: Grey, Black
Sizes: 28" - 38"
RRP £49.99
5. "Liquistretch" Tech Trouser
Colours: Grey, Black
Sizes: 28 - 38"
RRP £54.99
Click the image for full-resolution
Any more? I had to make a new post, the last image was getting too big! NYC's is coming up too, just awaiting details.
Previously:
Halloween 2009 Alleycats
Harry, the man behind the NY Bike Jumble and the provider of content for Tears for Gears as of late is selling a beautiful 57cm Cimatti Campagnolo Cambio Corsa 1940's road bike on eBay. This is pure sex on two wheels. If vintage (read, 60 years old) roadies are your thing, check it out!
It ends in less than a day, so you can probably get a good deal on it! Like what you see? Check out the full gallery here!
Via Tears for Gears
WNW is a community space in the heart of L.E.S. brought to the NYC cycling world by DQM, Trackstar, Livestrong and Nike. It's at Trackstar's space (the flier had me confused for a second). Tonight is the opening party, from 7-9 at 231 Eldridge.
WNW is a pop-up installation within Trackstar that works as a companion to the STAGES show. Open Weds – Saturday, 10/22-11/22, WNW is all dedicated to cycling and art in New York. It’s a place for the community to get a sense of what LIVESTRONG and the Lance Armstrong Foundation are about and to connect with people who are stoked on cycling and art.
They will be serving free coffee and donuts every morning for riders headed to work, offering free flat fixes and teaching classes on bike stuff like wheel building and headset installation. There will be weekly rides visiting all five boroughs of the city that will leave from WNW. The London to Paris film will also be screened here.
The Stages begins at Deitch on October 31st and runs through November 21st.
Previously:
The Bikes of STAGES Exhibition at The Armory
Stages09 New York
TCB Courier: Pizza + Candy from Joe Lumbroso on Vimeo.
Yes, this has been everywhere, but this still merits the re-re-re-re-post.
Sounds like a similar idea the Snap! guys have going on in Brooklyn, but in SF. TCB's rates, delivery zone and general goodness can be found right here, at their snazzy site.
Love the video guys. Keep it up!
Follow TCB on Twitter too.
Jason from Affinity just put up a nice post about Tomity, Kalavinka and Affinity. Head on over and read about it on the Affinity blog.
I know a lot of you guys ride the DMR Wingbars so listen up!
DMR's site announced last week the following recall:
SAFETY RECALL - DMR Alloy Handlebars (25.4mm) sold since June 2009
Partridge Green, West Sussex - DMR Bikes, a subsidiary of Upgrade Bikes Ltd, today announced a voluntary recall of the DMR COLOURED ALLOY WINGBAR sold since June 2009.
The handlebar can crack or break, posing a possible fall hazard to the consumer. We have identified a potentially serious safety issue with the latest batch of the 25.4mm anodized alloy Wingbar. It only affects the Coloured Alloy 25.4mm DMR Wingbars sold since June 2009.
Don't worry though, it doesn't affect these:
• DMR Alloy Wingbar – 31.8mm with ‘classic graphics’
• DMR Alloy Wingbar with ‘classic graphics’
• DMR Cro-Mo Wingbar with a brace
• DMR Heat treated Cro-Mo Wingbar
• Any DMR bar fitted to a DMR complete bike
Thanks for the heads up Jason!
If you're in Boston this Friday, be sure to check out the Superb Bicycle grand opening party. A ton of events are planned, including a hot bike contest.
This Friday at East River Bar in Brooklyn. $5 at the door, dope prizes, goldsprints, silent auction and all proceeds going to help Mike "Grandma" McFadyen. Be there!
Previously:
Help Out Mike "Grandma" McFadyen
Hailing from Missouri with production at Super Rat Machine in Kansas, Tree was one of the first companies to make a splined BMX sprocket. The Tree Lite splined sprocket was what saved BMX cranks on fixed gears for me. I know I'm not alone on this either because half of Tokyo is also riding these sprockets. Anyone I know who has switched to a BMX drivetrain is also riding one. It's probably the simplest solution for the complex problem of riding a bolt-on sprocket; make it splined!
Pic by Andy T.
I've had mine on since July and it's given me zero issues. The last set up I had with the Profile race cranks and Volume Krull looked nice and performed well enough, but I felt that the Tree was a more elegant solution.
Pic by Andy T.
Since I ride a larger bike, I like the way a bigger sprocket looks. Currently, the Tree Lite on my Bruiser is a 42t. If I had a 30t on, it would probably look dainty on the bike; don't be mistaken, these things are beefy. It's made from 5/16" thick 7075 aluminum and with a unique cross-section, the Lite sprocket looks like a piece of art. The splined version weighs only 96 grams for a 30t too. Not bad.
Most people are riding more compact tooth count now, partially due to the scarcity of the 42t sprockets; Milwaukee sold out in hours! With a 33t ring up front, you could easily ride a 12t ot 13t cog in the back and with 38c tires, come in around 74 gear inches or so.
Sprocket Making Video from andy chapman on Vimeo.
The only negative thing I can say about the Tree Lite sprocket, isn't really a bad thing as much as it is the nature of being a small company and funding your own production; availability. Dans Comp usually has some 28t sizes in stock, but the larger sizes are really hard to find. Maybe it's possible to have your LBS contact Tree directly? I don't know but if you can get your hands on a higher-tooth count ring, do so because it's a legit product.
With other companies like Profile making their splined sprocket, it will come down to the aesthetics and design of the sprocket itself. That's another thing Tree has going for it, the design of the ring is nicely proportioned. Hell, they know all about sacred geometries, as seen by their older Flower of Life shirt.
Tree certainly innovated the BMX industry with their design and now the fixed gear community has another re-appropriated product to use. In the future, more companies will follow suit with the idea and it's all thanks to Tree. I commend Tree on their innovation and look forward to see what else they come up with.
Pic by Andrew Curry
Ace Metric is a new track bike shop in Orlando, Florida. It was started by a group of friends with the intent to offer the Orlando area a bike shop embedded in the fixed gear culture. If you're in Orlando on vacation or if you live in the area, swing through and say hi to the guys.
Mike is also throwing an alleycat and trick comp soon, so definitely go to that! I'll post the flier once I receive it.
Loop Magazine's second issue has been released in Japan. It features an article on Peel Sessions, Brooklyn Machine Works and Mishka. Jeremiah from Hold Fast also made the cover with his new Brooklyn Element! Nate even made the flier for the launch party.
One thing's for sure, Tokyo has love for Brooklyn! Now I gotta find a place in NYC that has a copy.
Arik Roper is the man. His work has blessed many album covers from many many great bands over the years; Sleep and High on Fire are just a few. He's having an opening event at Fuse Gallery this weekend. Here's a few of the pieces that will be on display. I'll be there!
Brimming with delicate, surreal imagery, Arik Roper’s The Hidden Dimension examines alternate states of being that exist within and beyond everyday awareness. These realms unfold as everyday consciousness is interrupted through dreams or other capacities. Exploring these transcendent elements, Roper’s paintings and drawings feature epic landscapes of the mind, natural artifacts from the past and future and other cerebral peculiarities.
Arik Moonhawk Roper
The Hidden Dimension
Exhibition: October 24 through November 28, 2009
Opening Reception: Saturday, October 24th, 7 to 10 pm
I've been meaning to post this chain lube for a while but never got around to it. After seeing a pic of it on Hunky Dory, I had to (thanks Mike!). Chain-L is a nicely-branded, high-performance chain lube from New England (Westchester maybe?)
At Interbike a year ago, I snatched up a sample bottle and used it up in a month or two. I wanted to buy more, but at $12.00 per 4oz bottle, it's a little more than I like to spend on lube. The price is probably why they chose a Chanel-inspired label!
More information:
In a word, it’s oil. More specifically, Chain-L is a blend of extreme pressure (EP) lubricants in a high film-strength mineral oil base, formulated to provide the maximum possible lubrication to the tiny bearings that make up a chain. Chain-L also contains rust inhibitors and other additives to improve its longevity and wet-weather performance.
Check it out at their site here.
Remember that Kalavinka x Adidas Samba that everyone seemed to hate on? Well, maybe not everyone. Hell, I liked them, but that's besides the point.
Adidas remodeled their Samba for fixed gear riding and even though Highsnobiety doesn't mention that in their post, the designers at the Adidas tent told me these Madsaki shoes are part of a larger fixed gear pack that's due out any day now.
Some improvements made to the shoe were a stiffer sole, extra padding at the toe box and a Velcro lace cover to reduce lace wear. They had Kalavinka design one pair and Madsaki design another. To go with each shoe are a series of cut and sew items as well. I took some pics, but Flickr seems to be down at the moment. Everything I saw at the Adidas tent looked legit though, so you'll have to take my word on it! No word on US-distro, although they did tell me these will be available in the States.
Keep watch here for future posts as events warrant.
If you're into track racing, then match sprints need no introduction. Here's an introduction anyway, from Al, the race organizer:
Depending on racer turnout it will either be 2 or 3 racers competing at a time. This is not a drag race where you kick it from the gun, rather it is a match sprint where you stalk your opponent with the intention of surprising him/her with an explosive sprint or tricking them into a premature sprint and using their draft until you choose to pass them before the finish line.
Examples:
Pumped yet? Here's the location where they're being held.
Be there!
In case you missed it, Freshness has a feature up on the bikes of the Stages09 exhibition at The Armory in NYC. Make sure to swing through because this will be one of the last chances to see the bikes before they're auctioned off. If you miss this, you can always check out the Stages09 show at Deitch from October 31 through November 21.
Stages09 Artist Bikes At The Armory
643 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10065
Previously:
Stages09 New York
With last year's calender a huge success, Mishka asked Ellen Stagg to come back to shoot the 2010 calender. It's available for pre-order now and this Thursday is the official opening party at their store on 350 Broadway in Brooklyn. I'll be there early before Peel Sessions, so be sure to swing through!
Ellen will also be exhibiting more of her erotic photography at the space, so don't miss out!
Previously:
Mishka 2009 Calender NSFW
Sexy Sushi just made a post on his blog outlining how he shot Toku's portrait for Loop magazine. The shots are a bit old, but the explanation of how he lit the subjects to capture the mood of Shiba Friday is pretty cool. I think that's what Google translate said anyway!
Reminds me of what Tak does when he shoots us at Peel. Low light and minimal flashes. Be on the look out for Peel, Mishka, Affinity and other NYC people and places in the new issue of Loop. It should be out shortly!
Catch the rest of the shots here.
Click the image for full-resolution
Well, here it is, the 2009 Halloween Alleycat post. It's a big one. Sorry if I missed anyone! If I did or If you've got one in your city that you want to see posted here, email me the flier and I'll add it.
click for higher-resolution
I've been looking for this photo for weeks! The organizers of the CMWC Tokyo had a construction crane on the last day to take a group photo. So many people!
Anyone have a link to a higher-resolution image? I'll host it here, regardless of size. I'm in there, top left, standing by myself. The neon orange fork really pops.
via Cyclehawk
I mentioned this earlier today and figured I'd post it up. Milwaukee is now making the Stout chainring guards in blackened steel. Steel will last longer and grind on more surfaces. It's gonna spark like hell too! The machined lines really show nicely and the finish is spot-on!
This is a prototype, so the production batch should be done soon.
Nasty, the fastest fixed gear freestyle rider on Earth (my opinion) has a new fork on his Fuji. It's the W-Base Do a Trick 700c fork. Full specs here on the W-Base site. Is that a threaded top cap? Interesting...
Nice looking ride! Remember to always take drive side pics of your bikes! Even when it's left-hand drive...
;-)
Via Fix Pack!!!
Artcrank is coming to SF this weekend! Be sure to check it out.
ARTCRANK San Francisco 2009 is set for Saturday, October 24 at the Chrome Messenger Bags retail store. Admission is free, and all posters are $30. Best of all, Chrome and ARTCRANK will donate $4.00 for every poster purchased to Bikes To Rwanda.
Anthony Cozzi just sent me a sneak peek of his new print, Dead Wheelie. Looks good man! I dig it! Info below:
Dead Wheelie is an 18" x 24" screenprint, has an edition of 56 and will be $30 at the show.
Why isn't this show coming to NYC?
iMinusD, the San Jose-based track bike boutique just got in the first shipment of Milwaukee Bruiser goods; the S700 forks! Check out their blog for future updates and as always, we're so stoked for the success of the Bruiser. Thanks to everyone who has purchased one!
iMiNUSD Track Boutique
112 Paseo de San Antonio
San Jose, CA. 95112
P.001.408.287.2310
F.001.408.287.2316
Well looky here. Global Gutz has a Fundraiser Cup up in support of the Tokyo Bike Messenger Association. Another way to donate to the CMWC host city.
(The image looks a little blurry, click it for a clearer, full-resolution image)
Thanks for the heads up Mario!
Previously:
Sugino & Nitto for the CMWC
The Nike Sportswear LIVESTRONG Collection just posted images of the new LIVESTRONG Air Zoom Tiempos. This city is Austin, co-branded by Lance's shop, Mellow Johnny's
Nice heel accents too with Austin Texas printed on the shoe. Would be nice if it were in 3m. Maybe the other cities will have this too?
Nicely detailed. Accented stitching and Mellow Johnny's branding.
The Air Zoom Tiempo Austin Texas will be available at select Nike Sportswear retailers; Mellow Johnny’s and 21 Mercer on October 24th, 2009. Three more shoes, collaborated with cyclists from Paris, Berlin and San Francisco will be available in early November.
More at Nike Sportswear
Previously:
Stages New York
One of the ways the TKBMA is recouping their financial loss from hosting the CMWCs this year is by selling the CMWC branded components. Blue Lug just got in all the limited red-anodized parts.
Show your support by buying these! Tokyo is in the hole a great deal of money and we need to help them out!
Speaking of the Revival, one of the brands that came on to support the crew is Race Face. You've heard of them before if you ever mountain biked and there's one thing that's for sure with this fixed freestyle stuff, MTB and BMX equipment hold up the best to the abuse we dish out.
The guys at Race Face sent me two sets of bars, two stems and a pair of cranks!
The stuff looks really legit and don't worry, you can flip the ring around if you don't like the anodizing. The cranks are an external bottom bracket system with a steel spindle. Should hold up well. 130bcd so I can run one of the new steel Milwaukee Stouts! Once I heal up, I'll be putting this stuff on the Bruiser and thrashing it to hell. Thanks guys!
Previously:
Race Face is Supporting the Revival
Velo Swap is a massive swap meet in Denver Colorado. It's this weekend, the 24th of October and bike shops from all over will be there, including Mobius Cycle. If you're in the area, pick up some tickets now!
(I secretly just love this picture and would have posted it regardless of the event!)
Picture via Mobius Cycle
Vancouver! You guys get to be the home base for the Revival World Premier. Wayne and Tom's masterpiece is nearing completion and on November 8th, they're ready to present it to fixed gear riders all over. These guys are the most genuine people ever who had a vision and the motivation to produce a film in months, not years. Big ups to the whole crew and thanks for asking me to be a part of it!
Details below:
November 8th, 2009
Vancouver, BC
The Rickshaw Theater
254 East Hastings
Screening at 9:30pm
The Chari & Co x Steven Alan flannels are in stock and ready to buy. A lot of nice detailing in these, setting them apart from your run of the mill flannel. To see all the details, head to the Chari Blog. Kai, it's been a while man!
Description below.
Chari & CO. teamed up with Steven Alan in the form of a flannel riding shirt. The shirt includes “a long tail to cover your ass and a Velcro-fastened rip-open chest pocket that’s been relocated to a messenger-bag-friendly position.” Other details, ribbed cuffs and a rear hunting pocket for travel storage (big enough to fit a magazine or water bottle) The collar can be buttoned up to “protect-ya-neck” from the cold. Dyed to match ribbed cuff and collar… Slim fit, exposed side seams to keep shape. This shirt is 100% cotton - made in the USA and is available in RED and GRED flannel for $185.
I know Empire seems like it's been dormant, but it hasn't. Between Crihs doing the 42 Below Ride, various injuries and a dead scooter (R.I.P. baby), the guys have been battling all kinds of unforeseen setbacks.
Now that summer's gone and the cold winter months are right around the corner, Luke is keeping it fresh with some pics from production this summer. Head on over to see a few shots by Andy T. and me wearing the most ridiculous Mishka shirt ever.
Mike Martin's clothing line, Martin Clothing, has landed at Blue Lug in Tokyo. Nate, Luke and I got to see the goods when Mike was in NYC a few months ago.
It's really nice. Not cycling clothing as much as clothing for cyclists. Legit details all over and hand made in burrito and hills central, San Francisco.
Mike, if you need some testers in NYC, let me know!
Looks great man!
Previously:
Martin Clothing
Livestrong Stages is making its way to NYC. Head over to the site to see a great video showcasing the background on the event and be sure to catch it on October 31st!
Details below:
From October 31 through November 21, Stages will be on display at Deitch Projects in New York.
Artists:
Cai Guo-Qiang
Rosson Crow
Jules De Balincourt
Dzine
Shepard Fairey
Futura
Andreas Gursky
KAWS
Geoff McFetridge
Yoshitomo Nara
Catherine Opie
Os Gemeos
José Parlá
Raymond Pettibon
Lari Pittman
Richard Prince
Ed Ruscha
Tom Sachs
Kenny Scharf
Eric White
Christopher Wool
Dustin Yellin
Aaron Young
Open to the public: October 31 through November 21, 2009
489 Broome St New York, NY 10013
T : 212.343.7300
Gallery hours: Tue-Sat, 12-6pm
info@deitch.com
http://www.deitch.com
Stages09.com
via DQM
Patrick at Pedal Consumption got the inside scoop on Leaf Cycles new fixed products. They've produced a freestyle frame, a spider, chainring and other goodies. These integrated bars look great. Head over to Pedal Consumption to see the rest from the OZ-born Leaf Cycles.
Japan has a ton of bicycle companies. Add the popularity of fixed gears to the mix and you've got an abundance of cycling products. Starf*ckers has been making fixed gear goodies for a good while now and recently, they teamed up with Motherf*ckin' Bored to produce some nice track hubs.
More images at Starf*ckers and you can pick them up here, at the shop!
Probably the biggest news I got hold of this weekend was the NS Bikes Analog. They're releasing a complete bike (pictured above, specs below) and still having the option to purchase the frame or fork (below). Looks good so far. Specs and images via NS Bikes.
ANALOG COMPLETE BIKE
The Analog is a complete bike based on the Analog aftermarket frame and fork. It's a pure fixed gear freestyle bike, it is not a traditional track bike! It's strong enough to trick, but still very light. The bikes is built around a frame with the same geometry as the aftermarket Analog frame and uses the same tubes as our dirt jumping frames. The fork is also made by NS and it's geometry and overall function correspond with the aftermarket Analog fork. The bike is fitted with out with a nice selection of parts and has is in essence, a radical no-compromise trick-track bike that can also function as a great bike for high-speed everyday commuting. We made sure that this new bikes gets the same attention to detail and the same focused design as all our other products.
Specs:
Frame: NS Analog OEM, full cromoly
Fork: NS Analog OEM, full cromoly
Headset: Prestine, loose ball
Stem: NS Quark
Handlebar: NS Mint, cut to 580mm
Grips: Martin Soderstrom Slim
Brakes: Tektro R510A with 289A levers
Bottom bracket: TH, square taper
Crank: Lasco, 165mm w/ 42T CNC chainring
Chain: KMC 510HMX
Cog: 16T (16T freewheel included)
Rims: Jalco
Hubs: Joytech
Spokes: CN Steel Black
Tires: Kenda Kwick Trax, 700x38C
Seatpost: Octane One, 27.2
Saddle: Velo
Pedals: Odyssey Twisted PC
Colour: Black
Weight: 10 kg
Geometry:
S: Seat Tube=510mm, Top Tube=580mm, Head Angle=72.0 deg
M: Seat Tube=540mm, Top Tube=595mm, Head Angle=72.5 deg
L: Seat Tube=570mm, Top Tube=610mm, Head Angle=73.5 deg
All sizes: Seat Tube angle 73.5 deg, Chainstay 405mm, BB height 287mm
MSRP: 659 Euro
ANALOG FRAME
The Analog is our all-new premium level tricks frame. It has many of the features that we used to make the lightest dirt jumping frames on the market: the Majesty and Suburban. You will get an ovally machined headtube for weigh saving, our really special high-end tubeset with offset multi butting (this means that the tubes are round from the outside, but inside you will find a lot of complex thickness changes). The tubing is 100% cromoly made by Tange Japan, and what's most important, trick specific geometry. This means you can run 38x700 tires, you can barspin and still have a crisp geometry. Like all our frames, the analog has a super clean minimalistic design. This Analog is designed to be used with a short reach stem (40-60mm) and will handle just about any abuse that you can dish out. You can build the Analog frame into a radical trick-track bike that can also function as a great bike for high-speed everyday commuting.
Geometry
S: Seat Tube=510mm, Top Tube=580mm, Head Angle=72.0 deg
M: Seat Tube=540mm, Top Tube=595mm, Head Angle=72.5 deg
L: Seat Tube=570mm, Top Tube=610mm, Head Angle=73.5 deg
All sizes: Seat Tube angle 73.5 deg, Chainstay 405mm, BB height 287mm
Seat Tube: 27.2mm, Euro BB 68mm, 120mm hub spacing
Weight: 2.2kg (M size)
MSRP: 349 Euro
ANALOG FORK
Our RNS and Fundamental forks are a common sight in loads of trick-track bikes, so we decided to take these products one step further and make a fork specifically designed for fixed gear trick bikes. You will get a lower axle to crown height than on MTB forks to keep your steering sharp, but at the same time you will still be able to barspin with this fork on the Analog frame. Even though the fork is built to withstand serious abuse, the weight remains nice- we used all our knowledge from the dirt jumping fork line when building the Analog. You get triple butted legs, multi-butted CNC steer tube, a threaded steer tube with alloy top cap and our full heat treatment process that takes place after welding.
Geometry:
Height 405mm
Rake 26mm
Weight: 1.1kg
MSRP: 139 Euro
I feel like I missed so many things happening this weekend while I was in Maryland for my brother's wedding.
Jeff from All-City sent me an email showcasing the new All-City products for 2010. Looking really nice.
Love the cog too. All-City delivers as always!
Sad but true. No date yet on when it will close.
The city plans to use the internationally known Brooklyn Banks skate park as a staging area during the Brooklyn Bridge reconstruction, which is starting later this year and will last until 2014, said Ralph Musolino, a district manager for the city Parks Dept.
Via Downtown Express
Color me stoked! Profile has their new splined 144bcd spiders in stock now.
Along with 49t 144bcd rings to match. Hell, these rings are so nice, they'd even look great on your 'going fast' bike.
More ring sizes and bcds coming in soon! Along with these new 3/8" axles which are bomb-proof! Hell yes!
To order, go to your LBS and have them order them for you. Profile is in the middle of redesigning their fixed site and that will be the quickest way. They'll also be in the webstore along with a no-boss 165 crankset on Tuesday.
Speaking of the Bicycle Film Festival, Rapha made a limited run of BFF hats for the 2009 year! They came out really nice with embroidered details on a Rapha cotton biretta.
See more pics and purchase one over at the Rapha site!
Don't worry, they're only $22.50
BFF PARIS
OCTOBER 15 - 18
JEUDI 15 OCTOBRE
VISITE DU VELODROME d entrainement national a l’INSEP, en presence des champions de l Equipe de France de piste.
WELCOME DRINKS at Au Passage- 22 Cour Des Petites Ecuries Paris 10
VENDREDI 16 OCTOBRE
VÉLO FILMS
L'entrepôt - 7/9 rue Francis de Pressensé 75014 Paris
19:30 | PROGRAMME 1 - WHERE ARE YOU GO
21:30 | PROGRAMME 2 - Urban Bike Shorts
23:30 | PROGRAMME 3 - BMX Programme (hosted by Cream)
AFTERPARTY - 23:00-05:00
SAMEDI 17 OCTOBR E
L'entrepôt - 7/9 rue Francis de Pressensé 75014 Paris
10:00 | VÉLO POLO - Qualifiers
23:00 | BIKES ROCK LE REGINE - 49 Rue de Ponthieu
DIMANCHE 18 OCTOBR E
10:00 | VÉLO POL O - Finales
19:00 | FÊTE DE CLÔTURE DU FESTIVA L - Au Passage
22 Cour Des Petites Ecuries Paris 10
Fish&Chips 1st Anniversary Event ~Trailer3~ from 2ROAD on Vimeo.
Here's another Fish & Chips promo video. Yso rolling through NYC. Man, I already miss summer!
Previously:
Fish & Chips 1 Year Event Promos
Not to plug Andy again, but his new post is great. From Tomity to Harajuku girls and bikes in the middle.
Andy over at Fyxomatosis and I were talking chainrings last night and he brought to my attention that he can make the Fyxo rings in any BCD, 5, 4 or 3 bolt. 151, 144, 130 or even 110. Here's a 110 he made recently. Hell, they'll even make them up to 96t!
They also have the ability to make a Nuovo Record inspired profile.
If you're into this idea, contact them. The finishes that are available are raw, polished and anodized.
Mine's held up great!
Previously:
How Flush is Yours?
Fyxomatosis and Milwaukee
Chari & Co just got in some more of those clever-little valve adapter keychains called the Bullet. Pretty smart idea. Pick em up today at Chari & Co!
It's been over a year since the Paris-based Cyclope first opened their doors. On top of maintaining a storefront and a blog, the Parisian company has teamed up with Veja to produce a fixed-gear inspired shoe.
They used a classic silhouette as a precedent, pulling details from the cycling shoes of the 70's and 80's but made it casual enough to wear everyday. The toebox is reinforced with a vegetable-tanned leather yoke and the sole boasts a thickness of 25mm. Like most collaboration shoes, these are limited. Only 384 pairs will be made in one colorway. To be released in January 2010.
Via Highsnobiety
Pure Norwegian black Reynolds metal! Not bad. Good geometry for a street track bike. Straight from Tjøme, Norway comes Viking Cycles. Their $599 frameset comes in 5 color choices and 5 sizes. Hand-brazed lugged steel and stamped track ends. Did I mention Reynolds tubing?
I do wonder what their decals and headbadges will end up looking like. They totally need them because if they don't, the framesets will be lost in the sea of steel track frames on the market.
If you're interested, they're taking preorders now.
I think this is the first Rapha jacket that I would wear. They took their popular Fixed Jacket and made some changes to it, resulting in the Bomber Jacket. With materials like Schoeller® 3xDry® and Cordura® shoulders, you can expect a high-tech and durable jacket. Made for "life both in the bar and on the bike", the Bomber sounds like your go-to garment for the fall and winter.
Nice colors too!
It's a sad truth that with the highest density, NYC still falls behind 5 other US-cities and 2 Canadian cities in the ranking for "best to bike in". Nice design on the chart, horrible bike though!
Via GOOD.is
I posted this Peacock Groove 'Bad Penny' a little while ago.
Well, to help fund their future projects, they've decided to put it up on eBay.
I can't wait to see what this beast fetches! Just look at the plating on the tied and soldered spokes! Thanks for the heads up Randall. Keep building beauties!
Previously:
Patinae Peacock Groove Pista
Memorial Bike Ride To Raise Funds For Alzheimer’s Association
Held in memory of Podium’s founding father, Winston Dunlap, Podium Distribution’s first annual Winston Ride will be held on Sunday, November 15th in Los Angeles’ South Bay. The event will consist of a series of three rides—a six, a fourteen, and a thirty five mile option to fit all rider levels. All proceeds generated form the ride will go to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Winston Dunlap lost his battle with Alzheimer’s last year, which prompted his son Brian Dunlap to create an event designed to build awareness around the debilitating and still incurable disease.
“We spent a huge part of our childhood racing and riding BMX which my dad was a huge supporter of,” says Podium VP Brian Dunlap. “I felt like creating a fun event that everyone can participate in would be a great way to honor my father’s life and help raise some funds for Alzheimer’s research.”
The Winston Ride will take place at Sangria on Hermosa Beach Pier at 9am on Sunday, November 15th.
More information available at PedaltoPodium.com
Milwaukee is getting the 2nd round of Bruisers in tomorrow. They've already listed them on the site, so head over and claim yours. First come, first serve.
Turn around times are listed here and as always, there's a lifetime warranty on the frame and fork and a 20% parts discount on a build. Not bad!
As I mentioned earlier, for this edition of Asphalt, Laek House and Prolly is Not Probably teamed up with Brooklyn-based Hold Fast to give away not one, but two sets of Hold Fast FRS straps.
Head on over here to read all the rules!
Urban Velo has a great photo gallery up on their blog from last weekend's Los Marcos Melee.
They're all so good. I wanted to post them all. You'll have to head over to see the rest.
The Architect's Journal has a nice article on a new book entitled Crap Cycle Lanes.
Description below:
Architects come up against short-sighted planning on a daily basis – not least when they get on their bikes
This charming book provides pictures of dozens of half-hearted, incompetent and dangerous cycle lanes. Crap Cycle Lanes is available from the Eye Books website, Amazon or any good bookshop. The book was inspired by the Warrington Cycle Campaign and all royalties go to the Cyclists Defence Fund.
Looks pretty good. Anyone got similar stories or pictures? Post them in the comments!
They guys at Outlier have been very busy lately. New products in the works, a pop-up shop in Williamsburg and researching new materials. Today, they re-issued their popular Waxed Cotton Cap. I have one and it's the the nicest cycling cap I own. The quality and material is top-notch. Read up below:
Most cycling caps are designed to last a season, our Waxed Cotton Cap is made to last beautifully for many seasons to come. The water resistant waxed cotton fabric protects you from the wind and rain and builds a rich character and texture as it ages. The double lined, made in New York City construction both gives it the right insulation to get you through those brisk autumn and winter rides and results in a far more durable cap. The grosgrain banding and bengaline lining will mold to your head shape over time make for a cap that might just age better than you. Made in collaboration with our friend and master milliner Victor Osborne, we've just slightly touched up the cut for this autumn by deepening the darts ensuring it fits better under your helmet and looks great both on and off the bike. Available in Navy, Army Green, Black and Stone Blue. Made in New York City for exceptional quality.
$60 USD
See more colors and more information at Outlier.
Last Friday Mike "Grandma" McFadyen was involved in a bad wreck. Without disclosing too much information, he's laid up in the hospital with a punctured lung, spinal damage and other serious injuries. Luckily he was wearing his helmet.
To help aid in supporting him, the NYC community has set up a relief fund and an auction. Details are on the flier.
Mike, get well man and everyone please, ride safe!
Julius Reeves took this shot of Tony Fast doing an air-to-fakie on the volcano in Philly. You can't miss it in the new COG magazine either, it's right on the inside cover!
Looks good T-bone!
Two pink bikes in one day? Yes. I couldn't let this build go by without posting it. Alan from Cycling WMD caught a nice auction on Craigslist this past weekend. He drove over to look at the bike and got the full tour of the seller's stable and collection. Really great write-up over at his blog, so head over and read up about it!
Great build. 1979 with Super Record (With Corsa Record brakes?) and Cinelli bits. Enjoy the ride man!
Sasha had an unfortunate experience with his Nagasawa a while back. Rust had taken over his chainstays, fork crown, head lugs, bottom bracket, seat tube and downtube. While most people would have just thrown the frame away, Sasha contacted Nagasawa who replaced the tubes that were damaged and even reinforced the delicate Keirin frame for street riding. Seriously, his bike has gussets! He also added cable guides!
For more information, check out Sasha's explanation here and the full Flickr set here.
Previously:
Dead Nagasawa!
I know it's been posted everywhere already, but I like to post events the week of. Check this out Reno!
Details below:
Oct. 17 Kick-off party/race with half of our proceeds going towards Reno bike project (local bike co-op)
Objective: Have fun and raise money for both companies and get some more people to recognize Reno as a bike culture city.
Cost: $10 for race or $5 for premier (all racers get free entry to the movie)
2:00pm- Alleycat race based on the routes we use for our day to day law and food deliveries
4:30pm- Bike polo tourney/skid comp
6:00pm- Premier Of Bootleg Sessions Vol. 3 (thanks to Burd)
8:00-?? After Party at The Broken Spoke
Coming Soon
Nov. 14 Great Reno Harvest Alleycat with almost all proceeds going to St. Vincents shelter/ Evelyn Mount Food Drive/ Great Basin Food Co-op
Objective: Raise Money and food to feed the homeless and needy families in reno especially with thanksgiving and christmas coming up,
Cost: $10 or canned food good for Race or $5 or canned food for Movie (all racers get free entry to the movie)
(Details will be posted Oct 1st)
Dec. 12 Skids For Kids Alleycat with all proceeds going to homes with children in need aswell as children hospitalized with severe illness
Objective: Raise money and toys to give to kids in need and just spread the holiday spirit with the children and their families.
(Details will be posted Nov 1st)
if you come to all three races you'll be entered into a raffle to win such prizes as..
A Brand new Alien Frame Fork & Headset
White Indistries ENO polished HUbset with 17t cog and Lockring
and much much more..
Swansea Bookworm Alleycat 03.10.09 HD 720p from progressive media on Vimeo.
Fixed Gear Whales is coming off their first alleycat. Check out the full race report here and be on the look out for future events as well!
After posting about the Desired Hearts x Volume collaboration last week, the guys throwing the event send me the official flier. Sounds like a rad time.
Rock the Republic is a 3-day (Oct.15-17) music and art festival in downtown Bryan, which is adjacent to us in College Station. They are calling it a "Spectacle of Sight and Sound". There are tons of different live band playing, all of them being from Texas. There is also a stomp competition, a benefit walk, and slam poetry. The cycling events are the main events for Saturday the 17th. There is an alley-cat race starting around 2 pm, followed by live music during the bmx and fixed freestyle comps. The map for the race will be posted sometime this coming week on Third Coast Fixed. The local 20" guys are building I think 3 quarter pipes, a wedge, a grind box, and they will be bringing their huge lake jump ramp also.
The Fixed freestyle comp prize is the one of a kind Volume Cutter. There is also multiple bags, gift certificates, clothing, other components, and a Fuji Track frame for the race and BMX comp. Most of the clothing and two of the bags are being made here in Texas by small independent companies. i.e.: DUAL, EYESORE, Black Gold Cycling, Double A Caps, Subzersive Cycling, The Byke Project.
LONDON TO PARIS from Amazing Grace on Vimeo.
You might have caught a premature post I made this morning about the London to Paris video up on All or Nothing Productions, because of scheduling conflicts, I had to take it down. Well, if you didn't catch it, here it is again with more information!
'London to Paris', directed by Grace Ladoja, documents 10 riders from all over the world making the track bike journey from London to Paris to meet Lance Armstrong as the Tour De France 2009 comes to a close. Made in association with Nike Sportswear's CTRS project, the film's NYC premiere is set for late October 2009...for stages09.com
About the shoe/ Nike
“Eight hand-picked bicycle riders from around the world came together this Summer for one cause: LIVESTRONG. Each cyclist created their own version of the Nike Air Zoom Tiempo, a footwear style based off of the popular soccer shoe, but newly adapted specifically for city cycling. Bonding over color swatches and carbon frames, seven of the eight guys took on their own challenge, a journey across the European countryside on fixed gear bikes. The crew rode from London to Paris to attend the STAGES art show with Lance on June 26th, where just a few hours earlier he completed the last stage of the Tour de France.
London to Paris, 220 miles, 3 days, fixed gear bikes...What’s the worst that could happen?”
Milano Fixed has some pics up of last night's Joyride opening night. Head on over and checkem out!
King Kog just got in some new tees. XS-XL sizes and $15. While you're there, pick up a new issue of COG magazine too!
The Texas-based lifestyle brand, Desired Hearts has posted a teaser image of their collaboration with Volume bikes.
From the looks of it, it's a gold-painted Cutter. Looks interesting. Will be cool seeing the progress of this collaboration. If you're interested in the frame, you gotta win the freestyle comp, Ride the Republic, during the Rock the Republic festival coming up next week!
Friday, October 9th is messenger appreciation day. NYC has a bunch of events to celebrate. Rad flier Dan!
All you photographers out there; you may want to get in on this. The Red Bull Illume is an international photography competition focusing on extreme sports. It's not about shooting someone going the biggest, it's about shooting a beautiful photograph of something sport related.
Even though It doesn't have fixed gears or track bikes as a category, I'm sure you can find another sport to pick!
More information can be found here. There's also some amazing shots in the Gallery section.
Edit: Nick from Redbull commented that there is a category where fixed gear shots could be entered, so shoot away!
I just received an email from Brad Serls regarding a friend and fellow cyclist that took his own life recently due to overwhelming depression. To help out he's selling the remaining prints from his photography show I posted about a while back and sending the proceeds to Beyond Blue, an Australian organization that raises awareness of depression.
My thoughts are with his family.
You can see the remaining prints here, at his Flickr set.
NYC skate / sneaker / clothing shop Dave's Quality Meat has a new website. DQM New York launched recently and they've got their new lookbook up on the front page. Bros, Bikes and Beer. Just the way I like to spend my Fall weekends.
... and don't forget, Saturday DQM will be re-stocked on the Nike CTRS City Tiempos. Get there soon because they didn't get a lot!
COG Magazine 07 is shipping! Expect to see it was your LBS within a week or so. If you don't have a LBS that stocks COG, ask them 'why not?' and if they still won't, head over here to the webstore and pick a copy up!
upskirt shot
Wow. The painters really turned those forks around! Semi-gloss looks good too.
detail of the 'B' cutout
The BMW Clusterforks are back from the painters and ready to be sold. Check out the BMW blog for more information!
Previously:
BMW Clusterfork
Carnival
Carnival sits above W-base in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. When we pulled up to W-base, I thought Carnival was their storage space. It took me a minute to realize it was another shop. (What tipped me off was the work station on the porch above W-base's storefront.)
It's hard to think of two bike shops stacked on top of each other, sharing the same building lot and surviving in today's market, but Carnival's interests lie in vintage track and road bikes, Italian and Japanese.
Italian road and track bikes
After visiting a lot of shops, I was surprised to see some bikes in my size range. The Italian track bikes remain a luxury item for bike enthusiasts in Tokyo. With Keirin frames literally being a dime a dozen and in all the right sizes, I saw very few Italian steeds rolling around. This Faini was Super Record-equipped and adorned with pantographed components. Dialed-in to perfection and just my size. Too bad it wasn't in my budget!
frames from the ceiling
Once again, the every inch of space is utilized to the fullest. Frames hang from the ceiling and the displays are jam-packed with vintage and modern track bike components. Carnival's collection is pretty dense. It took me a while to browse through everything the first time I visited it and even the second and third times I went up to see the shop, I was finding that I kept overlooking things.
tons of wheels
With wheels ranging from "No-Record" Campy hubs, to early Dura Ace and modern fixed, you have plenty of options on how to build your next bike.
151 bcd Campagnolo inch-pitch
I think I saw more Campy Inch Pitch in Tokyo than I have seen anywhere else. The admiration for Italian componentry was insane. So much NOS Campy porn to be had!
anodized components
Like many shops in Tokyo, Carnival has launched their own branded components. Cranks, saddles and even their own frames are spread throughout their shop; and of course, all the anodized fixed bits you could ask for. People in Tokyo must keep their bikes pretty clean; I couldn't imagine having an anodized lockring. In two weeks of riding, you wouldn't even be able to see the coloring!
street-culture
Tokyo and American street culture are everywhere in the shop. Posters, stickers, t-shirts, hats and shoes are all over. Little trinkets make the space and the friendly staff were always smiling.
Once again, when you're in Tokyo next, make sure to swing through Carnival!
Previously:
Tokyo Bike Shop: Dreamworks
Tokyo Bike Shop: Sexon Super Peace
picture by Rip Zinger
One of the days that I was healed up enough to ride, Rip Zinger set up a meeting with Nike Japan to do some shooting of me riding throughout Tokyo. I was still injured at the time and wasn't really feeling like riding, but Rip is a world-renown photographer and I couldn't pass up the opportunity!
picture by Rip Zinger
A nice little wallride spot I found. We only got one run in at it though.
picture by Rip Zinger
Traffic was dense in Tokyo. Comparable to NYC.
picture by Rip Zinger
It's actually legal to ride on the sidewalk there too. Sometimes it's the only way to get to a spot.
picture by Rip Zinger
Found a nice bank in Shibuya with a pretty steep hip. I got a nice 3 tap off it and a flared out 180 on another bank, a few blocks away.
picture by Rip Zinger, click for full-resolution
This sidewalk made a nice little hip. Perfect for blasting a 180 out of it.
Thanks so much for your time Rip! Come back to NYC and we'll hang out!
see it bigger here
Andrew Gura is a Los-Angeles based director and photographer. He's been experimenting with Anamorphic video by using his beautiful track bikes as subjects. This first one is of his Carlton flyer track frame.
see it bigger here
Here's his properly-built, period-correct Pogliaghi pista. Such a nice bike!
See some of his videos here and keep watch for an edit of these two bikes shortly!
Speaking of polo! Across the world at the same time as Los Marcos is this! LOVE the flier!
Rollapaluza roller-race / Polopaluza bike polo Event - Saturday 10th of October 2009
Rollapaluza:
Roller-race sprint event in 't Vonderke Eindhoven. Where it all started back in the days, now back with a new formula. Saturday 10th of October. Pure adrenaline, sweat, beers and tears. Young and old, everybody is welcome to join. There're lots of prizes to win!
Rollapaluza roller-racing
Time: 20:00 - 02.00h
Fee: EUR 5,-
Polopaluza: Eindhoven bike polo tourney
Hereby we proudly invite you to Polopaluza bike polo tournament. Blood, sweat, beers, and nice prizes are on the way. Everyone is welcome, but only 12 teams can join this tourney... First come, first serve!!
Polopaluza bike polo. (powered by Fuccit)
Time: 12.00 - 18.00h
Fee: EUR 15,- (incl. dinner + roller-race)
What we nee from you is:
1. Your team name
2. Name of 3 players
3. Reachable e-mail address + telephone number
Sign up now! *link to Fuccit.
Location: Café 't Vonderke - Lodewijk Napoleonplein 9 - Eindhoven
More info here!
I just got an email from Cyclic! In Amsterdam, telling me of an event that's springing up this weekend!
A hobby and meeting of two creatives that has got out of hand > turned exhibition event next weekend in Amsterdam.
We (Vera & Cheryl) are two biking buddies that thought a diy exhibition about cycle culture would be fun to organise for the biking community here in Amsterdam.
cyclic! is a bicycle » art » media happening celebrating cycling culture. Exhibiting bicycle inspired artwork, design, performance, film screening, styling and a meet up & ride.
One of our exhibiting artists is Mat the Horse whose work I discovered on your blog.
artists exhibiting/performing » Bitches in Control, Brent Humphreys (Project le Tour), Cafe Velo, Erosie, fotoduda, Gabriel Kousbroek, Kapitein Roodbaard (Amsterdam Fixxxed), Lovelilalee, Magieke Jansen, Matthew The Horse, Oorbeek, Vera van de Nieuwenhof, Wheels-on-Fire,Tim Ayres, Vindersloon, Zelda Beauchampet.
It's that time again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! VIVA LOS MARCOS!!!
From Los Marcos:
IT THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! WONTON DESTRCUKSHIN Y MASSIVA AMOTS OF POLLO DESEND ON OVER LOWAR MANHATTA AND BUSHWIK. YOU INFIGHTED TO PLAY O YOU INFIGHTED TO WATCH. YOU DEFINITALY INFIGHTED TO PREPARTY. PREPARTY IS FAVRITE PASTIM OF LOS MARCOS (AXCEPT EL MARCO MALO - HE HAS BAD ALLERGY TO IT) - KARAOWOOKIE!
Threatening postcards!
Polocat!
Be there!
Future Tense is ON this Friday in Seattle!
To top things off, ZLOG and crew have set up a raffle to win a Leader track frame. All proceeds go to support the Revival as Wayne and crew tours Europe, filming riders!
All for a good cause so get your asses out there!
Brooklyn Machine Works have been very busy over on Powers street in Williamsburg. They've been hashing out a new 700c trick fork and finally, the first batch is heading out to the painters. With so many forks on the market currently, it's nice to see some unique details. I dig the 'B' logo cutout on the fork ends and the taper of the blades. Overall, it's a really nice fork.
They also display the clearance the only way you should, with calipers. None of this "it'll clear some obscure tire".
Expect a nicely proportioned fork that will clear almost any frame and tire combo with a 410mm ass to cunt clearance. Not too heavy either, weighing in at 1360grams. Price? $175, handmade in the USA.
Lookin good guys!
Read up more here at the BMW blog.
One of the new bikes in Affinity's 2010 lineup is their lugged, steel road bike.
The 212 has a lot of vintage features, including internal cable routing, a chromed straight-blade fork, lugs and chain stays.
The framesets will retail for $675.00. Be sure to check out the full spec sheet here.
This particular build was equipped with SRAM Red, which will be offered as a higher-end option. Ultegra or any other group will also be an option. If you want a vintage group, time to start hunting on eBay! I'd put a late-90's Chorus group on it.
Check out more pics here. MASH and Macaframa rider Massan even stopped by for a cameo.
When I was in Tokyo, Yohei was telling me about Ducus One's new trick bike. Durcus One is W-Base's house brand and so far they've made an alloy track bike and a 24" bmx cruiser. Their trick bike is the new installment in their stable. The details look really nice. I dig the integrated seatpost clamp and the lopped-off seat stay and chain stay ends. Thanks for sending over the pics man!
But who will ride this thing? None other than Marco. This dude is one of the most talented riders I've seen in person. Super fast, aggressive and smooth as hell. He's got ups too! As you can see, he's already rocking the new Hold Fast production models I gave him. Keep ripping man!
Anorak here has a dual meaning. It can either apply to a male with strong, almost obsessive interests in a subject or a rain jacket.
Fixed Gear London has been busy. When they're not trying to find where Ted fell asleep the night before, they're busy doing thangs. Whether it's working on a new collaboration with Vans or making a sick new rain jacket, these guys (and gals) stay busy.
I missed the Dice and Dice exhibition in Tokyo, so I couldn't see this in person, but rumour (British spelling) has it that they'll be of the highest materials and a good pricepoint.
Can't wait to see the full piece guys!
TJ just sent this over. I know what I'm listening to this weekend! From Actual Pain:
Several weeks ago I was in a record store in San Diego on tour with my band and my friend Nick who works there was playing this amazing old sounding goth band, who as it turns out was not old but new and actually from San Diego called Blessure Grave. I picked up one of their LPs and got a copy of their newest demo to listen to on the rest of our trip. Randomly a few weeks later, I contacted them about this mixtape I've wanted to do for a while now, and they literally had it done _that evening_. That's not to say that the mix lacks substance (it's an hour and twenty minutes) or quality, I think it says that these guys are very serious about the art, and is about to leave a legacy that spreads faster than the plague.
1. Siouxsie & The Banshees - "Sin in My Heart"
2. Play Dead - "Pleasureland"
3. Agrimensor K - "Principio Y Fin"
4. Sol Invictus - "Raven Chorus"
5. Theatre of Hate - "The Hop"
6. Spizz Energi - "Mega City 3"
7. Fur Bible - "Headbolt"
8. Above the Ruins - "Song of the Wolf"
9. Wire - "On Returning"
10. UK Decay - "Mayday Malady"
11. Paralisis Permanente - "Quiero Ser Santa"
12. Death in June - "To Drown A Rose"
13. Brave New World - "Barriers"
14. Artery - "Afterwards"
15. Crisis - "Afraid"
16. The Cultural Decay - "Brave New World"
17. The Gun Club - "The Stranger in our Town"
18. Six Minute War - "Weatherman"
19. Christian Death - "Electra Descending"
20. No More - "Suicide Commando"
21. Screamers - "Need A Head-On"
22. Ministry - "I'm Falling" (Alternate Mix)
Link to the mixtape
http://coattails.org/radio/darklands.mp3.zip
Dreamworks is one of those shops that uses every square inch of its space to display vintage bike components.
Literally, it was probably only 200 square feet, if that. There was so much cycling component history behind glass and hung on the walls I thought I tripped and fell into the Smithsonian.
I'm a detail-oriented person. When I stepped foot inside the space, I was immediately immersed into the world of classic bike porn. I just realized I didn't even take a picture of the storefront or the space itself because I was so distracted by all the stock!
It was also one of the few shops that had an extensive Campagnolo collection
Along with some beautifully machined drillium components.
This wall had all the Concors you could want.
Even a LV custom and the highly sought-after Concor Sprint with lumbar-support.
Bibendum was there too, guarding the Nitto bars!
So much NOS Campy goodness sitting in shelves. The interesting thing about the Japanese track components is their homage to the Campy and other Italian companies. The MKS pedals were right next to the Super Record pedals, showing you the precedents.
No shop in Japan would be complete without the small work area. Not many shops in the US would be building bikes like this, but in Japan, the process of bike building is a revered tradition. It almost looks like the owner here is preparing for prayer.
NJS Keirin frames being displayed.
Including this Reynolds 753 Uno!
Dreamworks is exactly that. A bicycle shop built around dreams. Make sure you check it out next time you're in Tokyo!
Bike Reviews were also at Interbike this year, reviewing the various models of fixed gears on showcase. A great number of these bikes are marketed at the first-timers, offering a bike with everything a new rider would want. Color-coordination (well, mostly white) and minimalist designs.
The two recent fixed gear bikes they reviewed are the Cinelli Mystic Rats Bootleg and the Globe Roll. I'm not sold on either bike, but I can see what the companies were going for. At least the Globe has an interesting spin on a head badge!
Head over to Bike Reviews to check out more coverage from Interbike.
Brooklyn Machine Works has been long-time friends with the owner of Element Skateboards. So it was only natural for them to produced a co-branded complete bike for the fixed gear freestyle crowd. Along with a clothing line, the Brooklyn Element will be released shortly. Expect full builds coming solid. Wide rims, strong cranks, big tires. The whole package.
Here's Jeremiah's current build.
... one of the guys behind Hold Fast, Brooklyn wanted to support the local grassroots scene. Jeremiah gets better every time I see him. Keep ripping man!
Meanwhile, across the globe, Toku is ripping on another Element. Dialed build, adorned with the best fixed gear freestyle equipment and ready to rip Tokyo apart. Oh yeah, is that a mid-BB? Look for that as a possible option too!
Toku's one of the best riders in Japan. His moves are quick and dialed. Not to mention super fast. Expect big things from both these riders!
Previously:
Brooklyn Element Prototype
Pharrell Williams presents Element X Brooklyn Machine Works
Check out the Cyclesomatic events happening this coming week. Looks like a blast, so don't miss out! All the information can be found at Bike Friendly OC. All the fun begins tomorrow at 8:30pm.
Bike Friendly Oak Cliff is proud to announce Cyclesomatic, a week long bicycle festival in North Oak Cliff from October 2nd to the 11th. Events will include a history-themed group ride, bicycle competitions, Bike to City Hall, Biketoberfest! in Bishop, an Urban Bazaar, a “Kiddical Mass” Ride, Bike to School Day, BBQ, Bands, Bicycle Films at the Texas Theatre, Art Bike Shows, and guest speaker councilwoman Angela Hunt. New Belgium brewery is sponsoring part of the week, and we’re coordinating efforts with DART, BikeDenton, the Oak Cliff Bicycle Company, the Cube Creative, Eno’s Tavern, and more.
Flying Coffin has been one of my favorite clothing companies since Jason first rolled out his designs a few years ago. They're always on point with the graphics and he always picks the best artists to design graphics for him.
That being said, my boy JP drew this Electric Wizard inspired graphic entitled Supercoven. Catch the rest of the line here, at their webstore. Lookin good as always man!
I just completed my review of my trip to Japan on the Mishka Bloglin. Head on over and check it out!
These jerseys are pretty rad. New from Rotterdam Fixed Gear. Limited to a 30 piece order, in a club cut, not a race cut, so head over now and get on that pre-order list! Only €30!
I miss the 'Dam. Really wanna head back. It's been a while!
If you missed the Nike City Tiempo pack the first time around, the shoes are being reissued on October 2nd at select Nike retailers. If you do get the chance to order a pair, you should go up a size, since they run kinda small. I really want a pair of the London and Tokyo colors.
Dennis was out in full force this year, covering Interbike through a series of browser-crashing posts at Fixed Gear Gallery. His most recent post has a ton of pics from Brooklyn-based Affinity's 2010 line up.
I think it's rad that Stoned Tone donated his work bike to the booth. That's what a NYC messenger's bike looks like. Worn out in all the right areas. Seriously, the top of the stem!
Be sure to head over to the site to see the rest of Affinity's fixed gear line for 2010, including a Profile and Hold Fast decked-out Cyclone prototype.
Affinity also just relaunched their website and blog. Jason posted his Tokyo and Interbike recap earlier today, so go check it out!
No, not John Holmes, just good old fashioned bicycle races in Prospect Park!
Shiba 180 transfer by Andy White
When I was in Tokyo, I got to meet the Track Cunt himself, Andy White of Fyxomatosis. Andy's a great guy, always has his camera in hand and a smile on his face. Really great meeting you Andy!
Head over to Fyxomatosis for a sneak peek at his Tokyo Trip!
... and I think I found a video from the same line.
Another Seattle event this weekend:
PJ works for Raleigh USA, and is a solid individual, so any help would be appreciated. He had brain surgery after a head injury last December. Somewhere along the line he lost his sense of smell and taste. It's messed with his life in a major way. He rides with the Dead Baby Bike Club too.
More info can be found at Go Means Go.
More epic radness brought to you by the Zlog Crew in Seattle. Looks like a blast. Z knows how to throw bike events. This weekend. Be there.
Jeff at All-City just posted some pics of Mike Carney's Dropout build. Dig the french gray color and the white fork. Looks crispy!
Mike Carney's Bike Check from vincent shim on Vimeo.
And in case you missed it, here's Mike's bike check he did while I was in Tokyo.
144bcd splined spider
So I was gonna wait to post these pics up when I got them all on my bike, but since I'm all hurt and have yet to unpack my bike and since Profile already has them up on their site, I figured I might as well post them.
Wanna still run a track ring on your Profile Race Cranks? These two options will let you do that. A Profile splined spider, like their old school joints, but splined to make riding fixed much easier. No more loctite on the sprocket bolt, no more slipping.
144bcd track ring
Perfect for your track bike or your fixed gear freestyle rig. 130bcd rings coming soon too. These rings are beefy as hell.
true 3/8" axle
Profile beefs up their track axles with a proper 3/8" axle. Simple swap out the old one with the new 3/8" and good luck trying to break it!
Like I said, the splined sprockets for BMXs will also be applicable to the fixed riders. They'll come in larger sizes too and all the standard Profile colors.
Previously:
Profile Splined Sprocket
Just one of the many new Profile goods to be released shortly. The introduction of splined sprockets is a huge step for the company IMO.
From Profile:
We rolled out the Chrome Moly Gun Drilled Hollow bottom bracket spindles about halfway through last year to great response. If people liked CrMo GDH, then they’re probably going to love Titanium GDH spindles. Also shown is our entry into the spline drive sprocket sweepstakes. Made from 7075 with a hardened CrMo insert, they are strong as well as light and enable you to run cranks with no sprocket bolt bosses. This prototype is a 25t, but expect us to have all the popular sizes when they hit retail.
Profile Fixed sent me some other goodies that I'll be putting on the Bruiser this weekend. Once they're all set-up, I'll be posting pics.
Hold Fast was at Interbike, they're now big in Japan and the top riders all over are riding them. What else could they ask for? Oh, a new website which is up and running!
Seriously, when Jeremiah started working on this, almost a year ago, I would have never thought the Hold Fast FRS would inspire so many people worldwide to re-evaluate their foot retention. Congrats guys, the new site looks great!
By the way, Japan is itching for distro!
Picture by Takuyu Sakamoto
I worked really hard with the guys on re-designing the new Spetsnaz Mark III. Longer sleeves, tighter fit and we lengthened the back to cover your ass crack when you're in the drops. It's still waterproof and has nice pockets and vents. Two colors, red and black. Read up below!
Picture by Takuyu Sakamoto
When we released the Spetsnaz Mark I jacket, we never thought it would become a stalwart piece amongst the cycling enthusiasts. The combination of functionality and form made the Spetsnaz a popular choice for city riders, couriers and weekend warriors alike. Clean lines, simple design and sturdy construction have made this jacket a perfect shell for any situation. Whether you are bee-lining it through city traffic on a bike or just feel the need to look good, the Spetsnaz Mark III jacket offers a little something for everyone. Currently on it’s third incarnation, the Spetsnaz Mark III features a fully breathable and windproof nylon material which is waterproof up to 10,000 mm of pressure. It also features more streamlined cuts optimized for riding, arm vents just in case you get smelly, and a drop tail to shield your ass from the elements. In short, this jacket could withstand the rigors of riding through a tsunami without compromising looks.
Picture by Takuyu Sakamoto
Currently the Spetsnaz Mark III jacket is available at 350 and retails for $209.99. Mishka will offer a 20% discount on said item for anyone who rides their trusty steed to the store.
Mishka 350
350 Broadway
Brooklyn, New York
I tell you what, I've lost so many auctions on eBay trying to acquire a vintage pair of cycling shoes. Sure, I love clipless, but sometimes I don't want to swap my pedals out just to do park laps and honestly, I like the security of double straps when I'm doing park laps on my Merckx Pista. After seeing companies come out with vintage-inspired cycling shoes and either fail on the stiff sole or price-point categories, I was relieved when Quoc of Quoc Pham contacted me and offered to send me a pair of his hand made shoes.
For £90 you get a pair of these beautiful shoes. Full leather upper, rubber sole, stiff insole and reflective accents. The profile fits my feet perfectly and they fit in toe clips with the same vintage silhouette you'd expect from a pair of traditional cycling shoes. Throw on your wool tights and socks and head out on your ride. They do fit true to size, so no guessing. I wear a size 12 in most shoes and the size 46 fit just right.
These shoes are comfortable. No awkward duck-walking like you have with clipless road cleats. Overall, I'm very pleased with this product and will post a full review after I heal up and am able to ride my bike more. For the money, this is by far your best option! You'd be hard pressed to find a better constructed shoe.
To read up on the background of Quoc Pham, head to his site and to check out the availability of the shoes, check out the collection here. As of now, the black leather fixed shoe is all that's available.
Be sure to check out the lacing diagrams on the website to ensure you get the best experience from the shoes.
Bike gangs will run rampant through the pre-war streets of Charleston, SC. This looks like a lot of fun. I used to surf in Chucktown growing up. Such a beautiful city. Would be epic to race there! Nice sponsors list too.
October 24th, be ready!
The GOrilla Kilroy has launched and what better way to launch a new bike than to hit a massive triple 3 set.
Can't wait to see more of this! Big ups Wonka! Follow his adventures over at Fixed Gear Switzerland!
I hung out with Rip a lot in Tokyo. Such a rad dude. Always riding with his camera in hand and taking us to clubs and spots to ride. He's got an opening in Tokyo on Wednesday at the Slope Gallery.
Be sure to check it out if you're in Tokyo! Seeing these pics of NYC makes me glad to be home. Looks great Rip! Keep it up and dude, email me when you see this!
Ok it took some time between Japan and the Outlier crew being in Vegas for Interbike, but there is only one clear winner here. Tons of insane crotch blowouts, but damn Chunks, you are out of control. That's right more pants for Chunks. If not for his sake then for the sake of the riders behind him. Enjoy them man and let us know how they last... And a special thanks to everyone who posted.
CHUNKS stand up and claim your prize! Email me man!
Previously:
Prolly and Outlier Workwear Pant Giveaway
I just sat here and browsed all the photos that Incase took of the CMWC. It's really worth the time, they captured a ton of great shots. Head on over and check them all out here! Their blog also contains some nice write-ups.
and while you're at it, check out the CMWC Flickr pool here.
TJ, you fucking killed it. SO LEGIT. Actual Pain's Fall line is available for sale now on their website. Head on over because these are super limited.
In fact, I'm glad I got the Lavey's Daughter shirt in time! You know it won't last.
David Rowe was the director behind Fast Friday. He's now got his sights set on L.A. Introducing the first teaser for David Rowe’s new film documenting Los Angeles’ fixed-gear cycling community: TO LIVE AND RIDE IN L.A.
To Live & Ride In L.A. [Teaser A] from TRAFIK on Vimeo.
Keep watch on their site for more updates.
Who doesn't love whitewalls? Pair them with a great tire like the Fyxation Sessions and you've got a nice tire with treads perfect for city use.
The new Sessions are designed with the same aggressive wrap-around tread, pinch flat protection and Kevlar rolling protection as the all color Session 700 tires. The Session 700 will be available in a brown with whitewall and a black with whitewall and will begin shipping in October.
Also be sure to check out the new Bike Tires 101 posting on the Fyxation blog. It answers all the questions you've probably had about the Sessions tires.
KYOTO LOCO 2009: The Road to CMWC, Tokyo from Eli Tokyo Jitensha-Jin on Vimeo.
I finally got to meet Eli in Toyko. Great guy. Looks like he was behind the lens once again for all the madness that ensued with Kyoto Loco. Make sure you watch this film to the end!
I just uploaded my pictures from last night to my Flickr.
I spent all day Saturday in bed. When everyone got back from the Keirin races, they decided to take me to the hospital. My foot had gotten much worse and I was certain it was broken.
For the most part, my foot is ok. It was dislocated and when I re-set the bones, it may have caused a small fracture. Nothing I can really do. They wrapped me up with a splint after the xray and I was on my way to go drink.
We had a great time and once again, big ups TOKYO! Big ups WBASE and BIG THANKS TO MILWAUKEE for sending me!
SHIBA FRIDAY 9.25 from Fixy Life on Vimeo.
Such a great time. Proper song too. Much smaller crowd this night, which was nice. It was a perfect way to end my trip to Tokyo. I was finally riding better, since most my injuries had healed up. My ankles were both bruised still, so I wasn't trying to go crazy. At the end of the night I fell hard on my foot, fucking it over pretty well. I had a bone poking out, which I popped back in place.
So I went to the hospital tonight with Tak, Yohey and Sada. 1 Hour in the ER and a small amount of money when compared to US healthcare to find that my foot is fractured and I'll be off the bike for a bit. Small fracture in the big toe bone and a minor dislocation. If I hadn't popped it back in place at Shiba park, It would have been a painful night.
Tomorrow is my last day in Tokyo. Most of which will be spent traveling to the airport and packing. See you in NYC next week!
Big ups to CMWC, Shiba crew, YO!kohama Fixed Gear, Wbase, Fish & Chips, Homework, 3Bancho and all the others who rode with me this trip. I'm already missing you all! Keep riding and keep killing it! Marco, Nasty and Toku need to come to NYC!
Fixy Life is a great guy, so make sure you follow his blog!
flat fix komazawa park session from jun iwai on Vimeo.
This day was a lotta fun. Met up with a really great crew of people and rode to Komazawa park, which was probably the jankiest ramps I've ever ridden. Metal edges everywhere, holes in the deck. Tetanus shots waiting to happen!
Here's a video from Flat Fix.
Table Ted
Very Berry has some pics on his Flickr from a skatepark jam we had the other day.
Prolly 180
After the session, I got in a wreck with Joe from BMW and had a tennis-ball sized welt on my leg. Shit hurt! Injury number 2 of the week... I iced it down at AMPM and we rode back to Wbase. More pics to come!
SHIBA FRIDAY 9.18 from Fixy Life on Vimeo.
Such a great time last Friday! Sorry the post is so short, so expect a full recap next week!
Picture by Starfuckers
Tokyo! I will see you Friday at Shiba Friday!
I've uploaded some pics from the past two days to my Flickr. Be sure to checkem out!
Yesterday we rode around with a big group of people, catching lines through traffic, wheelies, hitting spots right off the street, skid sliders and just hauling ass around the different neighborhoods. Got to meet Andy of Fyxomatosis, Eli from Japan, numerous other people and a ton of the Tokyo trick riders. Big ups!
So I've packed all my stuff and am going to bed. Flight leaves in the morning for the CMWCs. I'll be gone until the 28th but I'll try to post some updates throughout my trip to Japan.
Ride/Relax!
Prolly is not Probably and Outlier are giving away a pair of the new Outlier Workwear Pants to the best picture of crotch blowout.
Here's how to win:
- Find a pair of your jeans or any other pants you've blown out and leave a picture of it in the comments (see below for instructions).
- Definitely include any pants that have been sewn multiple times and just generally really destroyed.
- Tell us how long it took before your pants were blown out.
- How did happen (points go to humorous mishaps).
- That's it.
The winner will be announced Saturday September 19th.
How to embed images in the comments.
I've enabled the IMG tag. What you'll want to have is something like this:
Hit up the BFF website to see when it comes to your city!
I met Ricky about a month ago through Nate. He was visiting from Leeds and was in NYC to ride BMX. We hung around for a bit, shot the shit and rode a popular spot in Brooklyn. Really nice guy. Kills BMX. Like to the point where you feel uncomfortable riding a silly fixed gear around him ya know? He was totally cool about it though and showed a real interest in track bikes. He even said hadn't seen people do 180's down stairs on fixed gears before.
That brought about him talking about track bikes. He said he and his friends were really into riding them and come to find out, he's got a company now. Feather Cycles just launched and he's got his first two frames posted.
Throughout the years, I've always found that the people who are humble about their work, well, usually outshine everyone. Ricky is totally that kind of person. I had no idea he was such a great welder or craftsman.
Seriously, the bikes look good man. Real good. Totally digging the head badge too. If you're interested in setting up an order, hit Ricky up here.
Jeremiah, from Hold Fast, was out taking pictures with us the day we filmed the Hold Fast Promo video.
That day ruled so hard.
Here are a few of the pics and you can check the rest here, at his Flickr.
Previously:
Hold Fast Promo 1
Here's the press release from the forthcoming Steven Alan and Chari & Co project and I must say, this looks so proper:
Steven Alan has been known for his highly regarded American made woven shirts for over a decade now, offering a seasonal array of plaids and stripes to eager customers and buyers alike. Prominantly featured in Barneys New York, United Arrows Japan, Ron Herman Los Angeles, in addition to Steven’s eponymously named boutiques, his collection is a peflectly dishevled play on traditional menswear.
Chari and Co. NYC has quickly become the foremost bicycle boutique in Manhattan, focusing on vintage and new Track bikes from all around the world. Located on a small block on the Lower East Side, their space is a well curated mix of hard to find bicycles and parts, along with a tightly edited selection of mostly bike-inspired clothing.
For this collaboration, Steven donated a small run of 100% Pima Cotton t-shirts to Chari and Co. NYC, allowing them to “rescue” the shirts from the sale bin, and offering Ken and Yuki an empty canvas to brand the garments as they saw fit.
Available in two primary colors (Blue and Red), the shirts feature a slim fit, Chari and Co.’s black tag on the seam, and a tonal screen print of the Chari and Co. logo on the back.
Look for more Steven Alan / Chari and Co. goods in the next month.
Via the Chari Blog
Yeah yeah yeah, I know, you've already seen this. The new Fixed Magazine is out now. If your LBS doesn't carry the hard copy, you can download the pdf here, at their site.
Along with Wonka making like 30 cameo appearances, there's a NYC-by-numbers piece by me and a nice article on the Revival. Tom Briggs, of Skitch clothing talks about what brought the project about and the initial cancellation that almost ended the film. What hit me the best was the line about how and why people work on video projects in the first place. Tom sums it up pretty well:
"I remember watching bmx videos as a kid and thinking it would be amazing to be a part of a project like that. I guess that idea never really died and that's what got us here today."
Well put man! Be on the watch for more Revival updates at the Skitch blog.
For the first time since their opening, Mission Bicycle Company has decided to sell their Valencia Frameset online. To properly kick it off, they're offering $100 off through the rest of the month. More on the frameset:
The 2009 Mission frameset was designed by celebrated local frame builder Emmanuel Eng right here in San Francisco. We think it's about the most durable, lightweight, and nimble steel frame you're gonna find anywhere at an affordable price.
Picture by Takuyu Sakamoto
Affinity is one of the many bicycle companies that will be unveiling 700c trick bikes this year at Interbike. Their bike, the Cyclone has a curved seat tube and an "A" bridged gusset. Some unique features that give it it's own flare.
Picture by Wilis
Nate was riding one last night at Peel Sessions. More information to follow. Affinity also has a steel track bike with a traditional geometry, a steel road bike with chromed lugs and an alloy track bike with integrated seatpost / mast.
Mosher, the recent NYC transplant and back-flip extraordinaire has a nice page in the new Volume catalog. Nice wallride homie! Photo by Ted Power.
Via Skitch!
I'm flying out to LA tomorrow morning to help the Mishka guys run this. If you're around, come say hey (and bring me a Budweiser tallboy!)
Seattle! Heads up. In case you're living under a rock, the BFF is in your city this week!
Once again, Harry has organized a Bike Jumble in NYC. This time, it's in Manhattan, on 4th St. between ave B and C. Be sure to check it out this Sunday. A lot of great deals were had at the Brooklyn Bike Jumble, including Jack's Jack Taylor!
Previously:
Brooklyn Bike Jumble
Cantgoslo made a few more t-shirts for Fall. The LOVE park one is so dead-on. Last time I was at LOVE park in Philly, I said to myself "someone should make a velo shirt out of the LOVE iconography". Glad to see it happened!
The NJS SIN shirt is pretty good too. Basically how I feel about the hype NJS bikes and components get over here in the States.
;-)
Seen at Pedal Consumption
Mash
Gazetta
Gazetta color option
Supercorsa Road
Supercorsa Pista
Of course I'm omitting all the carbon and aluminum road bikes and the Vigorelli, but here's the Cinelli fixed gear model line for 2010. Well, all fixed but one; I had to post that gorgeous Supercorsa road frame! The Supercorsa Pista is a perfect model for the vintage crowd and the Gazetta is addressing the "brightly colored" market with 4 colors; gray, purple, green and yellow.
Overall Cinelli does it again! Thanks for the catalog Ben!
Tak came out and shot some portraits of Peel Sessions riders and their bikes last week. Captures the crowd and the environment perfectly. Click the image to see it high-res.
We'll be out there this week, just like every week, so if you're around, swing by!
Clawing at the walls!
He got to check out the Bicycle Film Festival in Zurich, Eurobike and celebrated his birthday with friends. Have fun man!
Pics by I am Barnie
One more nice bike of note from Bianchi's forthcoming line. The Pista Via Condotti brings back the classic Celeste color on a steel pista. Minimal branding, retro-grouch decals and a partial-chrome rear triangle too. Nothing special for a fork, which is disappointing (I hate those forks) and the components list is still the same as the Pista, minus an upgraded saddle and a front brake.
The Pista Via Brera is another addition to the Urban Fixed line. Complete with front and rear brakes and a townie bar set-up. I wonder what it would take to bring a nice crowned fork and some lugs onto a Pista? Hell, even selling just a frameset. Would be a nice, classy and affordable bike.
Bike as is, $799 retail.
Mishka has released their first Fall '09 delivery for the new line, Born Under a Bad Sign, to their webstore. If you don't have a local stockist, you can head to their online shop and pick up some goods. The flannels as always are on-point and all their cut and sew stuff shows a new side of the Brooklyn-based label.
Everyone loves cycling caps. I sure do and so does BMW. They just got a new batch of hats made and in limited quantities. So just like everything they make, get one now, before they sell out!
Outlier has been looking for a photographer for a while now; someone who can capture the light and energy of New York City, where their garments are hand made. That photographer is Björn Wallander.
Check out the rest of the pics here. I know the ladies are swooning...
Fixé Magazine has finally been released. The French publication puts an interesting spin on track bikes and fixed gears.
So far so good!
Pick yours up now at your international book stand, or at Cream. Also be sure to follow their blog here!
Via Shoes-Up
Today is 090909. Most likely nothing strange will happen, but who knows! In Hinduism it's considered to be complete, perfect and divine.
H+Son has finally released spy pics of their trick rim, the EERO (air-o). These rims are 22mm wide, 43mm deep and are made to take a beating.
Details:
Wider profile to fit bigger tires
Heavier than Formation Face with thicker walls
Made of 6061 aluminium alloy
Priced lower than Formation Face
Welded and smoothed joint just like FF, the strongest rim joint possible
43.33333333333333333333333mm high
Out soon!
Shit, if they were 28mm wide, I'd be all over them. The increased depth would totally help with a rear wheel's durability. Who's gonna make a 43mm deep and 28mm wide rim? Someone?
Bladanks SESH from Anson Wellington on Vimeo.
Anson is BMW's 24" ACL rider. Dude's super smooth and goes big all the time. We've ridden a few times and his vibe is always positive. Really pushes people to do their best. Here's a new web-edit he did for Brooklyn Machine Works.
THANKS LUKEY
Bike Thief vs Street Justis from triple on Vimeo.
FUCK YES. Street justice. The thieves in NYC have been running wild the past few weeks.
Story Urban Cyclist:
Here's the story. I was having brunch on first ave and first street with a a couple of friends including Alfred .It was a pretty sunny day and a good there was a good amount of pedestrian traffic .Nothing unusual. Alfred went out to make a call and spotted someone looking over his bike. Nothing unusual ,he got a hot ass cannondale with hot ass wheels.the guy was average looking,had a helmet and a bag.looked like your average joe casual biker.Suddenly this dude gets on his knees and pulls out a drill.At first Alfred thought he wanted to steal his wheels,until he saw the drill.Is this what it has come out to?!people stealing bike with drills?Anyways as he was getting ready to drill the ulock,Alfred comes in the restaurant and yells,!yooooo someones trying to steal my bike,lets go get him.and let me tell you this ass hole tried stealing the wrong bike.first it was a bike messengers bike and second it was Alfred's bike and the motherFkr got a temper sometimes.so we roll out to this dude and start pounding him.my first instinct was to get my U lock and bang on him,but my bike was already locked up so , we bumbrushed this dude and started pounding him.Everybody is watching and wondering why this dude is being plumeted ,but at that point we don't give a fuck.we had to make sure this asshole dosen't do it again.me personal i have had 2 bikes stolen,in like a month apart.fuck that shit.he did't even look like a bike thief!so while pounding him i reach out to put my phone in my pocket and realized i had a camera on my wait.i pulled it out and captured the second half of the beating!
Sorry it's so hard to read, but you get the idea.
I fully support this, unlike the u-lock justice video, this guy deserved what he got. Note that the guys who jumped him, didn't over-do it. They landed a few kicks and one or two punches. The guy wasn't bleeding or banged up. Just enough to send a message. DON'T STEAL BIKES. Cops won't do anything and this guy will think twice about stealing bikes.
Juliet and Posy are featured in this month's i-D Magazine. The photos were shot in Jack's loft in Bed Stuy during their last trip to NYC by Sam. The three girls had a blast when they were here and I'm sure they'll be returning soon.
More information is here.
In celebration of Dallas' new track bike shop, Transit Bicycle Co., some people are throwing Track and Field day. It's coming up on September 13th, from noon to sunset.
More information:
Pedallas
Transitbikes
Fixeddallas
Is it Halloween already? Well I'm already getting fliers in my email box. Here's one from Chicago!
180 out of the bank
Tak was kind enough to ask me to shoot some pictures for an editorial on Brooklyn for LOOP Magazine. He took portraits of the Peel Sessions crew and Jeremiah and I at the McCarren pool bank.
full cab gap into bank
Here are some out-takes.
thanks TAK!
I'm down in North Carolina for the weekend and was planning on taking this time to be away from the internet. On the drive down, I got an email from Jeff at All-City showcasing their new Sheriff Star hubs. So here I am, posting them up. Although I'm pretty sure they've already made their rounds on the blogs.
Now don't be confused, these aren't the delicate Corsa Record Pista hubs, these are a new breed of fixed gear freestyle hubs. Bolt on axles and beefy! Jeff doesn't give us an ETA, but expect them to be at Interbike this year! I dig em man! Hopefully I can test a pair out.
More pics are at the All-City blog.
In case you've been trying to get onto Kingkog.com recently and saw that it's temporarily down, you should know the shop is still there and they're just experiencing technical difficulties. For the time being, head over to their new King Kog Blog for store updates!
King Kog Bicycles & Accessories
455 Graham Ave Brooklyn, Ny 11222
347-689-2299
Shop hours M-F 12-7, Sat & Sun 12-6
Tomorrow night! 6pm at Hellyer. Be there! Brought to you by San Jose Fixed and Hellyer Velodrome.
I can't remember the last time I was up at 6:30am. Could you imagine being woke up by the anti-doping drug testing committee? Sheeesh.
Via Animal NY Via Lance's Twitter
Alex
Brad Serls joined up with some of Perth's bike crews and put on a photographic exhibition.
Kaspa
You can check out the rest here and if you're interested in prints, there are still a few available.
Starf*ckers has pics of their new saddles up on their Flickr. They'll be dropping soon, so keep watch on their blog for more details as events warrant.
Previously:
Starf*ckers Saddles?
Head on over here to find out how you can win a set of Black ELVS Velocity B43s!
Brought to you by Laek House, Velocity and Prolly is not Probably!
Since there is some confusion about where to donate (not required) on Get Better Gabe, here's the link!
Head on over to South Florida Fixed to catch a lil Q&A we set up a few weeks ago.
I talk about bikes, beer, city planning and haters.
click to enlarge
This film really is going to be a Revival for fixed gear riders world wide. You guys make it home safe ok? I had a blast!
Images via Tron, Blayne and Wayne on the Skitch Blog.
I know this has been everywhere but I still wanted to post it and say congrats to Tyler. He's been ripping hard for a while now and I'm glad to see him getting hooked up! Here's his Leader 729 Trick Star frame.
Here's the bike in action! Nice 180 bar on a bank. One day I caught shit for saying a 180° bunnyhop was a 270°. "It's either 180° or 360° John!"
Follow him here at (b)logging miles.
Outlier once again drops the premium goods on the cycling world. I cannot speak highly enough of their products. At first, when they made their cycling hats, they wouldn't fit my head. The next run they decided to make a size large, which fits perfectly. It's such a nice hat and fits like a tailored cycling hat. The wool breathes great and I don't sweat buckets like a cotton cap, even in the Summer. Read up below as Outlier describes their new Nailhead Cap.
This is literally the good stuff. Stuff is a word that can mean just about anything, but its first use as a noun was to describe the worsted wool fabrics that medieval knights stuffed under their suits of armor. Nailhead is one of our favorite worsted wools around. Its subtle pinprick pattern gives it an incredible depth of texture, and as a fine suiting fabric it tends to be made from the softest and longest wool fibers available. That makes it one of the best performance fabrics in the world, but you'd never know since it tends to be used in expensive men's suits and nothing but. We snatched these fabrics from our favorite Brooklyn warehouse determined to find a better use for this quality stuff than the upper class ghetto of office armor and take it back to the streets.
Wool sometimes has a bad rep for being itchy, course and over-warm, but that's only because the good stuff always gets snatched up for suiting fabric. The finer wools breathe better than cotton, and wick moisture into the inner core of their actual fibers. This means they cool you in the summer, keep you warm in the winter and always feel drier to the touch than other fabrics, no matter how wet it is outside. It makes for an incredible cap.
The Nailhead Collection uses our classic cycling cap design done with master milliner Victor Osborne. We line our caps with a bengaline fabric that molds to your head over time, as does our high quality grossgrain banding. Because it's a lined cap, it costs twice as much to make, the lining is essentially a second cap sewn inside the first. But for that added cost you get a cap that should last way more than twice as long, and fit great for all the years you own it. As always we produce our garments in New York City for exceptional quality.
Urban Velo has released issue #15. Pick it up at your LBS, or read the pdf here. This publication has come a long long way and I really love what Brad and Jeff are doing. Keep it rolling guys!
Previously:
Urban Velo 14
Urban Velo 13
Urban Velo 12
Urban Velo 11
CMWC TOKYO 2009 PROMO II: TKBMA Gives Some Advice from Eli Tokyo Jitensha-Jin on Vimeo.
In this video the Tokyo Bicycle Messenger Association gives some helpful tips. I cannot wait to go. Who's gonna be there? London? West Coast? Oz? Be sure to watch this video and read below as Eli Tokyo Jitensha-Jin gives some tips:
TKBMA (The Tokyo Bike Messenger Association) is putting the final touches on their preparation for CMWC (Cycle Messenger World Championship) 2009 in Tokyo, Japan. For those of you planning to come, we hope you've already registered online and have gotten yourself some plane tickets.
A lot of good advice for your visit to Japan can be found at cmwc2009.com (click on the English button). This video includes some other useful info. Like how to use one of Tokyo's many old style "squatter" toilets. Also:
*Nudity is illegal, so keep your clothes on.
*You can bring your bike on trains and subways, but only if it's in a "rinko" bag (cloth bicycle transport bag) or a box.
*You can drink the tap water.
*You must ride on the left side of the road.
*You need to be careful of "mama-chari" (grandma/housewife bikes) which most people in Japan ride. Many mama-chari riders don't pay attention or follow basic traffic rules and are a real danger to themselves and others.
*You can find cheap and fun ready-made ninja food at convenience store located everywhere (all open 24hrs).
*In September the weather will be quite warm and humid. But, bring some rain gear if you have some, because typhoons and sudden rain are fairly common.
*It's legal to drink on the streets and just about anywhere in public, but please be responsible and don't drink and ride.
I'd also like to include some of my own advice:
*Tokyo's streets are insanely confusing. Unless you plan to always be riding around with a local, a good map is a must. I think the only bilingual map worth its weight is "Tokyo City Atlas" published by Kondansha International. You can buy it at Amazon.
*Legally, foreigners must have their passports on them at all times. Unless you live here, in which case you must have your foreign registration ID card with you at all times. It's possible for foreigners to wind up spending a night or two in jail simply for not having their passport on them. But, the police are really really nice here for the most part and are good at giving directions if you need them.
BOIKZMOIND Trailer from Xynthetic on Vimeo.
A new project from the UK is brewing. Read up below:
This is the official trailer for our forthcoming fixed gear bike film 'BÖIKZMÖIND'.
Shot in Bristol, UK with a near army of fixed gear cyclists, the film will focus on the culture and social aspects of the scene here in the South West.
This trailer which premiered at the second 'No Gears' night at Bristol's Cube Cinema on Monday 31st August 2009, represents the first footage to be shown from hours of material gathered so far.
The full film will be released sometime in 2010.
Shot on a JVC Everio HD3 with a Century Optics Wide Angle Lens and various mounts for on bike filming as well as a JVC Everio HD5 with JAG35E DOF adapter and 50mm f1.4 Canon Lens.
Directed by Gavin Strange ( jam-factory.com )
Filmed & Edited by Jonny Clooney ( makinov.com ) & Gavin Strange
Music is 'In the Hall of the Mountain King' by Edvard Grieg
This took me a second to gather what was going on. I talk a lot about innovation on this blog and I personally when I see someone try something new, it really gets me stoked! Now, I've never seen a lacing pattern like this. I'm not saying it doesn't exist, just stating that I've never seen it. If you have, by all means, share it with us!
Gods Cogs are ISO 6-bolt cogs with an interesting spin on lacing. The wheel shown here is 32h lacing, 12-8-12. The production runs will be 36h, 12-12-12 lacing. The hub is laced to a Dodici rim.
Ok, all you industrial design / engineering heads, lemme know if you think this will be stronger than a 36h wheel laced 4x!
Really rad idea. Keep it up guys!
Remember the Mongoose Chris Akrigg was riding in his One Gear No Idea video? Well, here it is! The 2010 Mongoose Maurice. I love the name.
Previously:
One Gear No Idea
Alex took the gold at the NY State Track Championship's Cat 1,2,3 Mens Keirin. Way to go man!
Picture via Tak's blog on Urban Cyclist.
Previously:
Alex and the Quest for G
Andrew LaCorte Takes Gold
Quest for G
Meet Alex
Midway
Chrome has launched their new line of cycling sneakers.
Saipan
From their site:
We wanted tough shoes we could wear every day – not just on our bikes. Here they are: shoes built to work well in all kinds of situations, with quality materials, solid construction, and simple style.
Kursk
With details like gusseted tongues, taped and weather-proof seams, Texon board in the front of the shoe for added rigidity, urethane crash padded heel, and weatherproof 1,000 denier uppers, the sneakers should hold up to any use.
Arnhem
You can see more of the colorways here, at their site. They retail for between $70 and $90. I can't help but notice they look like Chuck Taylors and Chukka boots. If they had more ankle padding, I'd pick up a pair. Regardless, they're much better than their first shoes! If you're going to Interbike this year, lemme know what you think of them!
This Saturday, August 29th Mishka will be celebrating the release of our Fall 2009 collection with a monster of a party and you’re all invited. Bands, Djs, drinking, dancing & of course goodie bags for the attendees. A raucous time will be had by all!
All you need to do is RSVP for admission by clicking this link.
Vice & Colt 45 Present The Mishka Fall 2009 Release Party
Bands: Lemonade & Screen Vinyl Image
DJs: Nick Catchdubs & Lauren Flax
Visuals: The Vidiot
Glasslands
289 Kent Ave
Brooklyn, NY
Doors at 11pm
ADMITTANCE BASED ON CAPACITY!
I normally despise BMX bars on fixed gears. I'm more of a wide-ass 31.8 clamp 2" riser kinda guy. I will say this though, after seeing Puckett kill shit on his bike this summer, they kinda grew on me. Volume now has some 4" chromoly bars for fixed gears. These are the best looking fixed gear / bmx minis I've seen; I'll still ride my oversize downhill bars though. Cheers to Volume for addressing a market niche. Look, they even plugged Hold Fast.
Trickster Specs:
Clamp size: 22.2 mm
Rise: 4"
Width: 22"
Backsweep: 6°
Upsweep: 4.5°
COLORS: Black & White
Via Volume Fixed
Alex took the Silver at this year's Master Track Nationals. He also was chosen as one of the 8 athletes to partake in the Quest for G. Thousands of applicants, 16 chosen and 8 final contestants. Watch the episode here.
I think it's safe to say they made the right choice! If you're in NYC this weekend, head out to Kissena to see him tear the track apart!
Previously:
Andrew LaCorte Takes Gold
Quest for G
Meet Alex
Delta is by far my favorite artists. Not graffiti or street artist, just artist. I met Boris Tellegen in Amsterdam about 6 years ago. Prior to that, I had found his work in a Dutch architecture magazine. He went to industrial design school and began to explore 3D tessellations and installations.
These are some pics from his and Dalek's exhibition.
Although both artists’ work appears to have similarities with its underlying geometric themes, it is diametrically opposed “Marshall’s use of straight line and colour is all to do with the “super flat” surface and the ambiguity of the exaggerated optical perspectives, while Tellegen’s focus is on surface, texture and shadows,’ said curator Paul Jones in a recent interview with DESIGN WEEK ‘While I have exhibited both artists within larger group shows, I thought this two-man show would challenge and stimulate viewers’
Amsterdam based Boris Tellegen will be showing an impressive body of new works including canvases, collages and some new 3D sculptural wall pieces from his evolving ‘diversion’ series..
..and juxtaposed will be a selection of American artist James Marshall’s meticulous geometric paintings, including a large scale, site specific installation painted during a recent residency at the gallery.
Such amazing work!
Via Arrested Motion
No handed 540 rollout by Condition NYC
I think your splines are a bit off homie!
Late night smokes by Condition NYC
All these pics look super relaxed and chill. Don't let them fool you though. Peel tonight was in-fucking-sane. We got a bunch of palettes and plywood and build another ghetto kicker. Wonka had some mechanical problems when 180'ing off it, Torey hit his head after pulling massive air, my wrists are killing me and we got some sick-ass lines for the Revival.
Seriously, thanks so much Brooklyn for throwing it down proper tonight. Such a good time. Thanks for coming out!
More pics and video will follow. Keep watch for some nice extras in the Revival too!
The Brooklyn Element small prototype. A few things need to be tweaked and Jeremiah will be testing it out and giving BMW proper feedback. Looks good. A lot better than the Gangsta track in my opinion!
Nice gusset detailing.
Hold Fast, the first, the best, fuck the rest.
The BMW signature track ends.
Still embodies the Brooklyn Machine Works building style!
I'm stoked to see how this bike ends up!
Jeremiah, part of Hold Fast has one of the OG Gangsta Tracks. Before most people were riding fixed, his bike was being thrashed on the streets of Brooklyn. Now he's testing out one of their new unicrown forks and soon, as in this week, he'll have a fresh new Brooklyn Element. Joe captured this great shot of him over the coping!
I can't wait to see it in person.
Edit: Very funny guys!
Via BMWBlog
Previously:
Pharrell Williams presents Element X Brooklyn Machine Works
Brooklyn Element
Wow! Now that's gold. Not that cheap gold-colored anodizing. Legit gold-plated Phil Wood 3.5 series track hubs have arrived at Mobius Cycles.
Hold Fast continues to develop their product and identity. These new colorways are for sale now. They also made some improvements to the straps, making them better than ever. I've been riding these new ones for 2 weeks now and I'm confident these are the best foot retention system for fixed gear riding. Commuting, freestyle, bombing hills, bombing traffic, whatever. They're seriously the best foot retention I've used.
Lookin good guys! Head over and checkem out at their site.
DELCO KING SUP. Tom Lamarche kills every bike he rides. One of the few.... Name someone who can kill a fixed gear 700c, 26", 24", 20". Kid destroys everyone.
Edit: Yes, I know there are people better than him. It's still very impressive.
Pics via Tony Fast
Bicycle magazine Urban Velo has just sent their issue #15 to the printers. Keep watch for it shortly and remember, you can subscribe to the print edition here and the digital pdf podcast here.
Previously:
Urban Velo 14
Urban Velo 13
Urban Velo 12
Urban Velo 11
Leader's 729trk frame
Leader bicycles have introduced their version of a freestyle frame, called the Trick Star. It's the same geometry as a their 725TR track frame with a 75.5 STA and a 74 HTA when combined with their S803 fork's 44mm rake. They don't list the atc on their S803 fork, although I'm assuming it's somewhere around the 377mm mark. The frame is the first over-sized steel fixed gear Leader has made. It also sports a rather unique gusset at the head tube cluster.
Their site does not list the weight of the frameset.
shown with the wheel rotated
Along with the Trick Star frame, they designed a unicrown fork. It has a 36mm rake and 380 atc.
shown barspinning a 23c tire
Due to the tight clearances here on their own frame, it's hard to say whether or not their fork will barspin on other frames. Looks a little tight for a 23c tire. 380 atc doesn't offer a whole lotta wiggle room on other, non-Leader frames with a 1 1/8" steerer.
Ideally, I think you'll want a larger tire in the front. I know myself and others actually ride a wider tire on the front end than the rear.
Check the Trick Track thread for more information.
Stevil Kinevil has launched his new blog, All Hail The Black Market into the World Wide Web. Be sure to check it out and follow it for all the goodness you know Stevil for.
The holding page for Asphalt is now up. Laek House and I will be launching the contest in a week so keep watch.
We'll continue to put on future contests with a few brands in the forthcoming weeks.
Giant tries to address the fixed gear freestyle crowd by releasing a "tarck'd out" Bowery frame. Complete with a small saddle, short stem and 3-piece cranks. Is that an Imperial sprocket ripoff? Is the sprocket splined? Or are they selling the bike with Loctite and a locking washer for the sprocket bolt? The Champion du Monde stripes are a subtle detail too.
Companies need to pay attention. Nothing screams "throw me down some stairs" like an Aluminum frame. Why not make a 4130 frame? I know some people swear by alloy for tricks, so that's not a total fail and I'll give them credit on nailing the aesthetic of the 700c trick bikes.
They addressed just about everything. If it had a unicrown fork and was made from chromoly, it'd probably sell really well. It's obviously a new model, since the only place that has it online is Cadence 120, including the Giant website. I'm assuming it'll be showcased at the Giant booth at Interbike this year.
Here's their description:
"Giant's Bowery FMX might have been born in the velodrome but it was definitely raised in the BMX world. This fun city steed boasts an aluminum frame and chromoly fork for a light, responsive ride that can take on whatever the urban landscapes has in store for you. This sweet rig is ready for whatever tricks you can throw down, too, with stiff 3-piece chromoly cranks, a BMX-style saddle and a stubby stem with riser bars. And, the fast-rolling 700c wheels with Michelin tires can handle drops, jumps and fast bike-lane ripping. There's even a thick wrap around the top tube to protect you as well as this sweet frame while it's locked up."
Bike-lane ripping... lulz
Death Pedal and Pedal Consumption have created a relief fund for Patrick and Jake's stolen property. Hit up the Death Pedal store and the money earned from the DVD sale will be donated. Or hit up the Pedal Consumption relief fund here and help the guys recoup.
Jeff at All-City just posted some pics of their signature trick frame, the Dropout, on their blog. Check the rest of the prototype colors out here.
On another note, I found out this weekend another BMX company will be producing a trick frame. They're taking a similar approach in that the frame and fork are designed together. I can't say who it is yet, but expect details to follow...
Turning Tricks - Week 3 from KrEEEstowfUr on Vimeo.
Chris comes out to Peel Sessions every week. He has a trials background and picks up new moves frequently. To document his progress as a fixed gear rider, he has started a new series called "Turning Tricks". Heh.
Check out his progression here at his Vimeo page.
Bike Shorts X is approaching. $100 to the best bike-themed film. Not bad right? Get out your cameras and start shooting. The deadline for entries is September 20th with the premier on September 27th at Public Assembly in Brooklyn.
More information is here.
GNARCOTIX X IMINUSD PROMO from Gnarcotixsf on Vimeo.
The Gnarcotix guys made a little promotional video for the rim-company, IminusD.
The CMWC is in Tokyo this year. Along with the messenger races, which you should register for now, there are art shows and other cycling-inspired events. Kao Art Rush is one such event. T-Shirt designs from around the world.
Check out the information here.
Who's going? I'll be there!
The third teaser is now up for the forthcoming project outta Vancouver, Murder of Couriers. Neil and Tom are doing a kick-ass job!
Previously:
Murder of Couriers
Be there! Lemme see your warface!
Andrew "Cupcake" LaCorte, a member of Affinity's racing team took the Gold medal at the US Masters Nationals in Colorado! He's riding a Mavic IO front and a Comete rear on the new Affinity Kissena frame.
Andrew wears the stars and stripes again! Check out the custom Mishka x Affinity racing kit.
Marius aka Alex Farioletti took the Silver! You remember reading about Alex right? Way to go guys! Who would have ever thought that Kissena Velodrome would spawn such beasts! Goes to show it's all about talent.
180 off the column hip
Wonka came out to Peel tonight with the new Gorilla prototype.
bunnyhop barspin
... and proceeded to kill it. Blasting the hip of the column with a big 180 and just going off.
Pics by Andy T.
Tony Fast Pro Model pic by Andy T
Milwaukee just announced via their blog the creation of their online gallery of Bruisers. If you send them in your pics of your build, they'll post them to the Galley and their Flickr. In addition to posting them, they'll also send you a 20% discount code to be used on their webstore. Not bad right?
I know there's a ton out there! The smalls and mediums have sold out.
More information is here, at the Macablog!
Luke got me into the The Accüsed a few years ago. The self-proclaimed kings of Splatter Rock have released the Curse of Martha Splatterhead. If you're into black, thrash, death or any other kinda metal, go pick up this album now from Southern Lord!
Luke used "You Only Die Once" off Maddest Stories in this video from 2 years ago.
Thanks to Happy People Don't Complain for the heads up!
Um. Can I has? They'll match my ASLK CGER MXL Merckx perfectly! Just kidding, seems you have to be a National Road Race Champion to score these beauties. They're a special product for Rapha Condor's Kristian House.
Even if you can't get the red and blue gloves, you can still "cop" the Grand Tour Gloves here.
via Rapha
damn ginger kids
If you've got pictures of your Bruiser, post the URL in the comments and I'll add them to the post!
After months of work, Velo Cult has finally launched their website. It's filled with bike porn in the museum and littered with stunning bikes for sale in their shop.
Even if you can't drop loot on the bikes, their tshirts and jerseys are really nice and affordable.
Site looks really nice guys. Good job!
Velo Orange, the purveyor of fine bicycle components and frames have just released some pictures of their new Mixte model. Perfect bike for your lady friend!
Here's what they have to say about it:
A few VO Mixte frame prototypes have arrived. As with most prototypes there are a few small problems, fork bend, missing cable guides, etc, but overall they look great.
Details:
* Around $700 including fork
* Lugged double butted chromo frame.
* 50cm, 54cm, 57cm sizes
* 700c wheels
* Extra long reach brakes
* 38mm max tires
* Were shooting for Jan 2010 delivery.
Head over to their blog for more detail shots.
It's no secret that Vivalo is building the new Kinfolk frames.
The details and quality of these frames are remarkable. Right down to the subtle nuances that separate Kinfolk from other steel-bike manufacturers.
Kinfolk teamed up with Carnival Tokyo to co-brand this build.
I think it came out pretty well. There would be a few things I'd change if it were my bike, but it looks good!
Mishka's lines keep getting better and better. This season is entitled 'Born Under a Bad Sign' and features artwork from Arik Roper once again! They did a series of tees with artist's renditions of the Zodiac signs. Roper did the Taurus, which is my zodiac sign. Here's the press-release:
Mishka Fall 2009: Born Under a Bad Sign Lookbook!
We know it hasn't felt much like Fall these last couple of days here in NYC, but truth be told it's right around the corner. With that said, we present our latest lookbook. Shot by Marley Kate, you can now check out our Fall '09 styles from cut and sew to tees, caps, and beyond. We're proud to say that this is our favorite Fall line to date.
The first drop of this collection will be available in-store on Friday, August 21st at our Brooklyn shop.
Мишка
350 Broadway
Brooklyn, NY
J/M/Z to Marcy Ave.
G to Broadway
L to Lorimer
Originally from Massachusetts, Matt W. Moore has brought his fine-tuned, self-proclaimed "Vectorfunk" style back to the state with a well rounded body of work. His signature style canvas work, a departure from the norm into watercolor and collage work, as well as a small series of prints are hanging in the gallery. In conjunction with the traditional works, Matt has come together with Open and Traitor Cycles to present a series of five hand-painted frames, a cycling cap and t-shirt. Please visit the project's micro-site for a more in-depth look and to purchase select pieces of the Momentum project.
Visit Momentum Site.
Show hangs from August 15th, 2009 to September 15th, 2009.
"The bike project and other skate/snow/surf projects are ideal. I’m working with brands I have a lot of admiration for. I’m immersed in the culture; painting a bike is native to me - I ride every day. I want people to ride these bikes, not hang them up because they‘re scared to ride them. I do plenty of work that can be only hung up. Shred this bike for 10 summers, then hang it up and say it had a life."
Matt W. Moore / Arist & Designer
"The time and effort to which Matt and Zack have put into this show speak volumes of their love for what they do. This is obvious to anyone who has stepped foot in Open or has been in the presence of Matt’s art. We hold the work done at Open Bicycle, Chorus Gallery and Matt in the highest regard and are thrilled to have been asked to be a part of this."
Joe / Traitor Cycles
"Seeing a project go from conversation to completion is always great, especially when the outcome reaches a level far beyond what we all first imagined. We hope everyone enjoys it as much as we have."
Zack & Joshua / Open & Chorus
One of the nicest guys in the NYC fixed community was involved in a terrible accident while he was on vacation in San Francisco recently. It happened moments after he and his girlfriend arrived. He's pretty banged up and to help him with medical costs, we've begun to collect donations for him. Seriously, Gabe is one of the nicest guys I've met and is at just about every bike event here in NYC.
Help him out. It doesn't have to be much, every little bit helps!
If anyone helps Jake and Patrick out with their bikes, I'll send you something nice. Seriously. This is LOW!
Details below:
Patrick's Bike
* Frame: Pista Concept 2007 (white)
* Front Wheel: Phil Wood Low-Flange (silver), H Plus Son (gold), DT Swiss Spokes (black)
* Rear Wheel: Phil Wood Low-Flange (silver), H Plus Son (gold), DT Swiss Spokes (black)
* Headset: Stock Cane Creek (black)
* Stem: Thomson Elite 50mm (black)
* Handlebars: Nitto B-201 Riser Bars (black)
* Seatpost: Thomson Elite (black)
* Saddle: Sam Marco Supercorsa (black)
* Cranks: Sugino 75 (black)
* Bottom Bracket: Sugino 75
* Chainring: Sugino 75 - 44t (black)
* Pedals: Odyssey Twisted PC (black)
* Toe Straps: Hold Fast
Jake's Bike
* Frame: 3Rensho (purple-metallic)
* Front Wheel: SPIN Tri-Spoke (white)
* Rear Wheel: Chub Hub (black), H Plus Son Formation Face (black)
* Headset: Campy NJS (silver)
* Stem: Dura-Ace (silver)
* Handlebars: Syntace Pursuit Bars (silver)
* Seatpost: Thomson Elite (silver)
* Saddle: Sam Marco Rolls Ti (white)
* Cranks: Sugino 75 (silver)
* Bottom Bracket: Hatta
* Chainring: Sugino 75 - 49t (silver)
* Pedals: MKS Sylvan (silver)
* Toe Straps: Cadence Double (black)
Other Items Stolen
* Jake's custom Freight Baggage (black) bag that contained a digital and film camera and a $400 Patagonia jacket (black)
* Ryan’s shoulder bag containing 10 Macaframa DVD’s and Go Means Go shirts
* Dodici Veloce frame (pink/chrome) w/chrome fork
* Leader 721TR Track Frame/Fork (white)
*They are offering a reward, so if you have helpful information please contact us or e-mail them at patrick@pedalconsumption.com
Coming up on August 22nd at 8:30 PM is the the Beer Car Alleycat in Austin. It's going to include drinking, side events and all around good times. Drinking is a part of the race since this race is the spiritual successor to the "Too drunk to fuck race" that happened a while back. All cyclists and spectators are welcome.
Date/Time/Place: August 22nd, 8:30 PM, Lamar Ped. Bridge
Entry Fee: $5
Race, and Side events including Footdown, Skid Comp. and Track Stand Chug.
Winners get shirts and whatever else I can scrounge up.
CW&T are architecture graduates who've begun designing bicycle components. Hrmmmm sounds familiar. The Blockhead Stem is their first product. It's made from solid 7075 aluminum and is licensed under Creative Commons.
It's heavy, but indestructible. If you're interested in getting one, head over here. The guys were kind enough to offer a 25% discount to the first 5 orders too! Simply use the code: agoodword
Jeff at All-City gave me the heads up on their new trick bike called the Dropout. It's got 990 mounts, is constructed of 4130, has an integrated headset, a 400mm atc fork and will clear bigger tires. Seems like he learned his lesson from watching Milwaukee's Bruiser get ripped off, so he's holding back on the Geo sheet. Looks good man. I wanna see some spy pics! Email me! I promise not to show anyone.
Keep watch at the All-City blog for future details as events warrant.
Kyle at Tracko just posted these images of the new bike stuff available at Urban Outfitters. Looks like they're "going for it". It'd be better suited to have an actual mechanic working there to repair the Republic bikes. Maybe offer some classes? A majority of people who have never worked on their bikes before are probably more likely to break something, or strip out the threads on another component.
I'm all for making bicycles accessible to the public. Maybe UO will take this hint and set up something a little less fashion-focused and more education-focused? Or not. Is that the role of your LBS? Two sides to the story I'm sure.
Image via Orange 20's Flickr.
Previously:
Urban Outfitters F41L?
Andy, Chris and I drove down to Philly today for a much-needed Slow Sunday. I haven't been since we were filming for Bootleg Sessions 3 and even though we only rode 2 spots, the 90-degree weather killed us all.
There were some great lines pulled today.
And Tom killed a massive gap 3 times. Seriously, you have no idea how long this is. Andy has more pics up on his Flickr, so checkem out!
Catch up with the ladies Affinity crew and join us on our summertime group rides. We’ll be heading around the city exploring different spots each week. This weekend we’ll be heaing to Fort Tildon Beach. The ride leaves sunday at 10:30 fromthe shop. Call the shop or email if you have any questions.
Mishka Summer Sale! 15-40% Off now with additional 25% Off Discount Code
The Mishka Summer sale continues but this time they're offering you an extra 25% off already reduced prices though their online store!
Simply enter the discount code: BASS when checking out to receive an additional 25% off!* Online Only
Code may not be applied to items in: Actual Pain, Secret Base, Online Exclusives, Odds & Ends & Toys/Kaiju sections. Everything else is game!
Hurry because that thing you had your eye on and were going to wait for a sale... well it's probably gone.
Shirts and shoes are 25% off now at DQM...
"with savings this big, you're going to need a bigger boat!"
If you don't know who Massan is, then get familiar. He's one of the most powerful riders out there and the only person who makes bombing hills on a track bike look like snowboarding down a mountain. His recent introduction to Macaframa was a hit, showcasing his super smooth and strong riding.
Between traveling all over and riding through the streets of NYC, he's found time to make a blog. Be sure to follow him here.
Seattle heads up! This Friday is Future Tense. Make sure to roll through. If you don't know what Future Tense is, then watch that Vimby short I posted yesterday.
Originally from Massachusetts, Matt W. Moore is bringing his fine-tuned, self-proclaimed "Vectorfunk" style back to the state with a well rounded body of work this weekend. Matt will be showing his signature canvas work, a small series of prints, as well as presenting a project in part with Open and Traitor Cycles - a series of five hand-painted frames, a cycling cap and t-shirt.
Matt is in the middle of a global gallery takeover, you can see images from his last show in Sao Paulo, Brazil here and expect to see him cross the Atlantic for a show this fall. Opening Reception is SATURDAY at 8pm.
Check out the Chorus site, www.chorusgallery.com and Matt's site, www.mwmgraphics.com for more information.
Handpainted frames, prints, t-shirts and caps will be available for purchase on Open's site, Monday Aug 17th, along with the photo and video recap.
Previously:
MWM for Open
Duke Riley, the artist who did my Behemoth tattoo, has an event in Flushing-Meadows, Queens this Thursday. It's not a normal "gallery" event either, it's a naval battle footfight. Duke and his minions constructed boats from the reeds in the neighboring park and will set them assail in the reflecting pool outside the Queens Museum of Art at 6:30 on the 13th of August.
Looks so epic! Good job Duke!
Duke Riley has always been interested in the space where water meets land within the urban landscape and is known for art work that is an idiosyncratic mix of performance art, sailor’s craft and historical re-enactment. Upon QMA’s invitation for an artist residency, Riley’s life-long fascination with the culture and topography of waterfronts, and proclivity for margins - of society, history, etc. - were immediately focused on the decommissioned World’s Fair Ice Rink adjacent to the museum. The sight of the vast oval arena, a sea of refrigeration tubing and white sand, brought an instant association with ancient Roman coliseums that were flooded to stage violent naval battles or Naumachia for the delight of spectators in the Empire’s effort to distract the masses from societal collapse by indulging them with free bread and extravagant spectacle.
Sasha has an ongoing series entitled Seen on the Street: NYC Bikes and Riders. It's a great little set he's been compiling over the past few months; candid bicycle photographs and the people who ride them. This one in particular stuck out tonight. Full spandex, sneakers and no helmet on a GT Pulse. Really amazing shot and I figured with all the female T&A floating around on the blogs lately (just playing Zack!), maybe the female readers would like to see some boy butt. Albeit spandex butt.
Downtown Edit 1 from tbm on Vimeo.
It's cool to see more and more cities spawn fixed gear scenes. One such city is Orlando. The blog of the 407 is 407 Fixed Gear and they just posted a new video to their site.
I also added them to the Connections page, so make sure you check them out!
More information to come at COGmag.com. Stoked on this! Wish August would be over already!
Heads up riders! Here's a little update to the giveaway I mentioned last week on my Twitter. Keep your eyes peeled to the Laekhouse blog and here for more details.
Asphalt Giveaway Coming Up Soon
I’ve been working on organizing a giveaway series with John Prolly and it is coming to fruition within the next week or so. Named Asphalt, it’s a giveaway series showcasing of some of our favorite brands and friends.
We’re kicking it off with a set of B43s graciously donated by Velocity that I have finished in black ELVS. I know there have been questions floated as to whether there will be a production ELVS B43, and honestly, I can’t really give an answer yet. For the time being, these ELVS B43s are unique, perhaps now and forever.
pics by Andy T
Well, here it is. Joe from BMW and Pharrell present the Element & BMW project. I'm so stoked for BMW. The new bike looks great. The clothes aren't that bad either! Big ups guys!
Also, I had no idea Pharrell was so fucking funny to watch. HAH!
Previously:
Brooklyn Element
Before the SF Premiere:
Before the premier:
Race: 12pm @ The Island at the Embarcadero
Trick comp: 4pm @ The Island
More over at No Cassettes.
Kyle at Tracko just posted that Selle Italia is re-issuing the Turbo saddle. I am so pumped on this move, as if you can't tell already, the Turbo is my favorite saddle of all time I've spent a lot of money looking for a comparable saddle to ride on my Bruiser and it's been a long disappointing road. Selle finally did it and It looks identical to the OG body too!
Now, who's got these in stock? I need one ASAP!
THANK YOU KYLE. Big ups man!
Via Keirin Cycles
All you fixed gear riders who wanted to run Profile cranks, but didn't like the wider q-factor, Profile has answered your calls. I've been riding their 5 1/4" Gun-Drilled Spindle for a few weeks now and it's so much better than the standard bb spindle. You can set them up with just a cone against the cup and no spacers now. Doing so leaves about a 3/8" between the crank arm and my chainstay, drastically shortening the q-factor.
Edit:
Grab one here at Profile Fixed under the options for spindle length.
You may have seen the promotional graphic for Light Lane flying around the internet not too long ago. Well, Alex Tee and Evan Gant of Altitude Inc took all the positive responses to their project to heart and have since developed a prototype. The video above shows the product in the beta stage.
Pretty rad idea.
Susan, the wife and muse of the best bike blogger ever Fat Cyclist passed away last night. If you read his blog, then you're aware of her struggle. If you don't read his blog, now's a good time to head over and give him your condolences. I wish you the best man. We're all thinking about you.
Chrome has leaked a few sneak peak photos of their forthcoming messenger sneaker line. A cross between Chucks and Chukka boots, the sneakers come in either high or low-top silhouettes. Not sure on how stiff the soles are, or what pricepoint to expect them in, but you can most definitely gettem at Open in September.
Brought to you by High Snobiety.
Edit: Updated information from Open.
The shoes have a tab on the sole which assists in getting into toe clips, a Propulsion Plate that stiffens up the sole and will come in around $70 to $90
Dallas, TX heads up! Next Monday, August 10th is "Monday Ride". Be sure to show up.
Chari & Co has been speaking with Kashimax for 10 months now working on an exclusive 5 Gold Saddle. The black patent and white patent saddles will be released on August 17th, exclusively at their store in the LES.
2pm 08.08.09 Staten Island Ferry Terminal BE THERE!
Man, this shit is going to be nuts. Riding in Staten Island is no joke!
Stussy LV in conjunction with LVFIXED.com present their first-ever Track Bike Showoff. For the increasingly large fixed gear community in Las Vegas, the event will allow riders to gather for the all-day bike exhibition on August 8th, 2009. The show starts at 12:00 pm (registration begins the night before at 8 pm on Friday) with winners awarded at 8:00 pm with over $500 USD in cash and prizes.
Stussy x LVFIXED.com presents Track Bike Showoff
Saturday, August 8th, 2009
Starts at 12 pm
4480 Paradise Road Suite 350
Las Vegas, NV
I never realized Boston has so many frame builders until this past weekend. It's not that I doubted it, I just had no idea. We were talking about smaller companies starting up and gaining success. Geekhouse is definitely one of those companies. I've dug their bikes for a while now and one day, maybe I can find an excuse to talk to Marty about a CX or hell, maybe a touring bike.
With their new success and busy schedules, they're also starting up a CX team. Check out the sneak preview of the caps here.
... and I also meant to post this about a month ago. New Geekhouse track ends and fork dropouts. Nice!
Major Lazer "Pon De Floor" from Eric Wareheim on Vimeo.
Switch and Diplo are Major Lazer. If you haven't heard their debut LP, "Guns don't kill people, lazers do", then go out and get it. If you're a cheap ass, download the Mishka Keep Watch X mixtape. It's really good and FREE!
Here's their first music video, which is slightly NSFW and also up for a VMA! So head over to MTV and vote!
Hell yes.
Just look at that route! Rumble is one of the most brutal races in NYC and also one of the most fun. It's located exclusively in the Bronx (the Burrough with hills) and usually claims a few riders to injury and fatigue. Rumble VI looks like it'll come in around 35 miles or so.
I'm down to pre-ride this weekend. Here are the checkpoints in Google Maps. Who's down? Definitely taking the road bike!
Crihs is doing quite well on the 42 Below Ride. He's always updating his Twitter with times and average speeds. He just made a quick little post to the Empire blog and I agree man, I get anxious to return home when I'm away from NYC for too long!
Keirin Cycles from keirin cycles on Vimeo.
Here's a video of the recently-opened Keirin Cycles in Miami. Nike and Thomas walk you through their shop and speak a little about its intent. Nice Paramount in there along with a lot of other bike porn. If you're in town, swing by:
Keirin Cycles LLC.
235 A 9th Street
Miami Beach Florida 33139
(305) 531 6684
...and the video credit goes to Joe Perrin
Man, I'm sure glad Jeremiah had the idea to invent a new form of foot-retention for urban fixed gear riders. Otherwise, none of these other companies would have used their own creativity to develop something like it. I guess I should have continued to censor my Flickr pictures. In the end, I guess it's a good thing. Some people like the simplicity of these other straps, but we found that velcro alone doesn't last and can actually deteriorate over time.
The difference is, HOLD FAST have been in the works for over 8 months and are continuing to change with each version. They're just as simple as the others, but made to last longer. These straps have been tested by people who go big on their fixed gears and HOLD FAST is hand made in Brooklyn. You know if they last in Brooklyn, they'll last anywhere.
CNNMoney.com has an editorial up on stereotyping people based on the bikes they ride. Geekhouse was named the "hipster" wheels. I didn't get to make it over to their shop this weekend, but met Marty at the NYC BFF this year. Great dude. Love his bikes. Next time I'm in Boston, I'll have to swing by man!
Orange 20 has some photos on Flickr from a project that has been in the works for a while now. Brooklyn Machine Works has teamed up with Element to produce the Brooklyn Element.
At a recent press release in LA, Pharrell and Joe premiered the new line and the new and improved Gangsta Track. I heard from the guys at BMW that they were making revisions and even developing a unicrown fork and the first prototype looks great.
Products break. It's bound to happen. I've broken my share of things and have slowly begun to dial in my bike over the past 2 years to match my riding. I've said it before and will say it again, wheels are the hardest thing to keep rolling. So far, there have been a few rims that have held up for me and many that haven't.
Kyoichi recently cracked his Chukker and all hell broke loose on his Flickr page!
It's tough to say whether or not it's "ok" to blast products online. Sure, people do it in other cycling sports, but with this Freestyle Fixed thing evolving so quickly, it's tough to say whether or not it's helpful. We want to encourage companies to make new products and believe it or not, it's a huge risk for them to experiment. I think both Kyoichi and Velocity handled this well in the end.
Ben from Deep Fried Graphics did a series of installation illustrations for Hold Fast. Still riding mine and I still stand by them!
If you're in Glasgow, then be sure to attend this:
Celebrating their 2nd anniversary as well as their 20th exhibition, Glasgow’s Recoat will host their “Spin on This” exhibition later next month. The bike-centric exhibition brings together a number of their friends and close associates to create various bike-themed pieces which include old Tour de France portraits, DIY bikes, bike storage solutions and photography among other mediums. The artists participating include Will Barras, ilovedust, SUMS, DERM, WASTE, Blackcloud, Jam Factory, REKOR, SYRKUS, Pone, Thomas Deeprose and Russell Dempster. The exhibition begins on August 7th, 2009 and runs until September 6th, 2009 with special grab-bags from sponsors given out on the August 7th opening night.
Recoat “Spin on This” Exhibition
Friday, August 7th – Sunday, August 6th
Recoat Gallery
323 North Woodside Road
Glasgow
G20 6ND
Well, here they are. Straight from the Phil Wood website via their Twitter account.
Our ISO track hub is now available! The front hub has a larger flange than our high-flange track hub, and the rear has 120mm spacing and in 32 or 36 spoke hole configurations. Provided with the rear hub are six Phil Cog retention bolts. They are Grade 8/Class 8.9 with a minimum tensile strength of 150,000 psi.
The hub is offered in a single-fixed, double-fixed, fixed-freewheel, and fixed-freewheel (White Industries freewheel-specific) configuration. Cogs are available only in 1/8″ and in 16-19 teeth. We strongly recommend using Phil ISO track cogs with our bolts due to bolt fitment.
These are currently not listed in our web store.
Please call us at (408) 298-1540 to order.
A rear, double-fixed ISO track hub.
Previously:
Phil Wood ISO Track Hub?
The 2009 NACCCs are this weekend in Boston. If you live in the Northeast, you have NO EXCUSES. You better be there! Come find me and we'll enjoy a beer. You can also lecture me about how I should "get a bmx" if you want...
Here's the schedule. Since I'm not a messenger, I won't be racing. So if you're in the same boat as me, come ride the many skatespots in Boston with us!
Friday
14:00-22:00 - Registration and Art Show hosted by Red Bull and 4th Wall Project @ 4th Wall Project
22:00 - Welcome Scramble Alleycat
22:00-2:00 Welcome Party
Saturday
10:00-12:00 Open Forum
12:00-16:00 Sprints/Skids/Side Events & BBQ
16:00-22:00 Polo Tournament (Allston Polo Courts)
17:00-19:00 Billiards Tournament @ Flat Top Johnny's (Cambridge, MA)
20:00 Alleycat
22:00-2:00 Party@ Harpers Ferry (Allston, MA)
Arm Wrestling/Dancing/Tetris Competitions @ Harpers
Sunday
10:00 - 18:00 Work Simulation (Details TBA)
20:00-1:00 Awards Party @ The Middle East Downstairs (Cambridge, MA)
2:00 The Hustle/Cee-lo Throwdown
via fixedgearlondon
You lucky dogs. CTRs / DQM / NYC reppin hard! Congrats guys!
via bikewire
Sneakers, bringing cyclists together worldwide. Who'da thought?
Thomas and Devin are throwing this race and just sent me an email with the details. I'll be posting it again, since August 22nd is a ways off...
Coming up on August 22nd at 8:30 PM is the the Beer Car Alleycat in Austin. It's going to include drinking, side events and all around good times. Drinking is a part of the race since this race is the spiritual successor to the "Too drunk to fuck race" that happened a while back. All cyclists and spectators are welcome.
The time and info are all on it but I'll recap it here.
Date/Time/Place: August 22nd, 8:30 PM, Lamar Ped. Bridge
Entry Fee: $5
Race, and Side events including Footdown, Skid Comp. and Track Stand Chug.
Winners get shirts and whatever else I can scrounge up.
Also there will be spoke cards! I hate races without spoke cards.
Check out what MWM just submitted to Open for their installation entitled Momentum at the Chorus Gallery!
MWM is on a roll at the moment - Wired loves his work and did you see his custom Mini Cooper? He continues to push his graphic look onto new forms. Take his upcoming show at Open’s Chorus Gallery, “Momentum,” which explores his graphics against a series of Traitor track bicycle frames. “In part with Open and Traitor Cycles, Matt will be presenting a series of five hand-painted frames, a cycling cap and some other soft goods. In conjunction with the frames, Matt will be hanging some of his signature canvas work.” We’re fans.
Read up at Selectism.
Anyone know anything about these? Kore has a new saddle out called the Retrobu. Obviously they're being marketed to the fixed gear crowd; they come in a ton of colors. More retro-shaped saddles aren't a bad thing, I just wish someone would get it right. I was excited to see the Soma Tabos at first, but after riding one, I didn't like the synthetic leather. It was way too slippery. I love the Grunge saddles, but shipping from the UK can be a pain sometimes. I wish Selle Italia would just re-issue the Turbo already!
This Thursday between 7-10pm at 350 Broadway in Brooklyn, Mishka will be hosting a gallery event entitled Cursed Scrolls. They will be showcasing French's work. I've been a fan of French for some time now and when I found out he was doing some shirts for Mishka, I was pumped. I can't wait to catch this.
This shirt will also be available at the event and I'm sure it'll sell out quickly.
See ya there!
I first posted the trailer to this Black Metal documentary a while back on the old URL and thanks to JD, I can now post the updated Trailer. Complete with probably the best Burzum song ever as the soundtrack.
In 1991, Norwegian churches started to burn down, just after an underground circle of metal musicians had formed. The film reveals the true story behind the music, murders, and church burnings, and shows what happened to these young men, who tried to change the world using music, art, and violence. Ultimately, they lost control of what they had created.
Read up more over at the Until the Light Takes Us website!
If you're in SF and would like to see it. Make sure you catch it over at the Roxie Theater from July 31st - August 6th.
Yes. You heard me right. Velo Orange has a nice posting giving us a sneak peak at a new product in development; a threadless bottom bracket. Have an old Swiss or French frame and having a hard time finding a bottom-bracket with the right threads? Don't wanna fork out for a custom Phil? Or maybe your Cinelli's threads are stripped. Well, this could be the answer.
From their blog post:
We're going to try it on a few frames before ordering, but the quality looks great. The bearing are big sealed cartridges with serious weather seals. The body and cup are alloy with nice machining. The axle is chromo steel, but not hollow. As for the colors, we can have that changed; maybe lime green?
If all goes well we should see these arrive in about 3 months. The first shipment will probably be 107mm, 110mm, and 113mm lengths. We don't have final pricing yet, but I would guess they will run around $75.
The reason why this is so interesting to me is because it was a simple idea, taken to a manufacturer to address a specific problem. Less than a month later, there's a sample to be tested. If I had the resources, I'd be machining some stuff up as we speak!
Also, check out these awesome polished and eyeletted box-section VO rims!
pic by Laali
Torey is using his new-found free time to start a blog which he calls "WRAHW"; It's pronounced "Raw" before you ask. One of his first features is an interview with Tyler Johnson. It's pretty in-depth too so be sure you read it. I found this interesting in particular:
On your Myspace you have the statement, “I ride track bikes not 700CMX”. Do you think that the term 700CMX is odd? What would you name all of this, which we do, if you had the choice?
No that is just my little joke. I am not into the look of 700cmx bikes at all. I think that it is great that companies are taking an interest into our riding etc, but for me I do not want to ride a mtn bike that is fixed.. I think by now I have proven the extra beefiness is not truly needed. I ride an aluminum frame and carbon fork and I love it.
As for the term 700cmx I think it is ingenious. I also like the term fixed freestyle. It fits and makes sense.
I think that's good and all man, but the main difference between the materials are their points of tolerance for catastrophic failure. Steel will crack and you'll be able to tell in time to replace the frame or fork. Aluminum and Carbon fail catastrophically, giving no warning. All that stands between your face and the ground sometimes is a split second.
There's a reason why BMXs aren't made from Ti, Alloy or Carbon...
I'm personally blown away that your Trek has lasted you that long. That being said though, it seems like you've only recently begun to really leave the ground (although I can't really say, since I'm just basing this comment off BLS and other footage) and that could have something to do with the cracked frame. As you and the sport progresses, I think we'll see a switch to steel. Once you begin doing wallrides and big-ass 180's off kickers, the materials will begin to fail.
Anyway, kind of a side-note. I think Tyler is one of the hardest riders out there and I'll be interested to see how his future bikes hold up to his abuse. This post is in no way an attack at him because I'd love to be able to land some of the amazingly techy lines he pulls one day.
What do you guys think?
Keep ripping man and Torey, nice job!
Edit: Just realized I didn't actually link your blog Torey, sorry!
Bike Snob has a nice little article in the NYTimes and I've got a few quotes too. It's worth the read so head over and check it out.
John Watson, a bike blogger and fixed-gear enthusiast in New York City who goes by the nickname Prolly, said he was originally dismayed by the darts being thrown at his crowd. “At first I hated it,” Mr. Watson said. “You don’t know who this guy is, but he thinks he can take a look at your bike and make character judgments off of it.”
Over time, however, Mr. Watson gained respect for the Bike Snob. The two have exchanged cordial e-mail messages. “After you get used to his rantings, it’s a pretty amusing blog,” Mr. Watson said. “He actually takes the time to sculpt his postings every day.”
...It's a shame that they didn't use the quotes where I threatened his life at the hand of a Profile Race crank and sprocket battle ax!
Just got a nice package in the mail from Colby at Macaframa. Thanks duder! Stoked on the tall-boy coozie, stickers and shirt. Even more stoked on the ability to do this!
Check out this video as Plastician reflects on his 7 years over at Rinse.fm. Rinse is celebrating their 15th Birthday on the 31st. If you like what you hear here, hit up his show tonight!
Nice jacket!
Previously:
Plastician this Wednesday NYC!
Fixed gear tricks, not prostitutes!
Chi-town, heads up. Prizes and good times for sure. Keep it up guys. Someone send me some video and pics!
Very unnecessary. I'm not sure what happened, but taking a ulock to someone's face and head is way over the line. Seriously?
A car is one thing, but a person's face? From the Youtube page it seems as if the cyclist ran into the Asian man in the cross-walk. The Asian man tried to pick a fight with the cyclist and the cyclist just lays it out on him. Wow.
This video was uploaded Sunday and I'm sure it'll make the rounds soon enough.
"i made a pit stop in a starbucks somewhere on the lower east side and i saw this bike messenger and an old asian guy getting into a fight because they ran into each other at the intersection. the old guy just wouldn't leave the bike dude alone, so the bike dude totally let him have it, POW! KRYPTONITE LOCK TO THE FACE LIKE 3 OR 4 TIMES! Dudes face was actually bleeding hard core for like the next 20 minutes, but i bounced soon after. Crazy, and oddly enough the very next day i saw another fight in the street between two women and titties were flyin in that one, unfortunately i did not have the camera, bummer. Enjoy."
Bike Carnival 2009, ファンタジーレース,Fixed trick Jam ダイジェスト（not official） from ryo ubota on Vimeo.
I know, I know, It's 12 minutes long, so be patient because there are some bangers in there, particularly from Teppei (11:40!) and Toku. I feel like the US is a whiles off from throwing an event like this. Look at all those riders having fun. Pretty dope set up.
Timing in the video breaks down as so:
00:11 ファンタジーレース 準決勝 (Keirin)
01:43 Fixed Trick Jam 準決勝
05:14 ファンタジーレース 決勝 (Keirin)
06:55 Fixed Trick Jam 決勝
I can't wait to go to Japan. I still need to line up a place to stay while I'm there. Anyone in Tokyo got a couch or a floor I can sleep on?
Via Starfuckers
