This Girl's Bike

Put a Bike on It.

2011-08-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've heard of the brilliant Portlandia sketch "Put a Bird on It." Well in my world, if you Put a Bike on It, I'll buy it. :)

I was powerless over resisting this adorable tote! The Timbuk2 website was out of them but I found one on eBay. I swear I was innocently browsing the website looking for a Kindle case for my mom when I came across this. It wasn't my fault. My collection of bags is growing dangerously out of control, but I must the say the quality, generous size and overall cuteness of this tote makes it a welcome addition to my collection. It's a keeper.

New Bike Art.

2011-07-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

via Sophie Blackall on etsy

Recently purchased on etsy. The artist is Sophie Blackall. This is from her Missed Connections project which uses as its inspiration the endlessly amusing craigslist personals listings.

Po Campo Loop Pannier has Arrived!

2011-07-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

I'll have to post a detailed review later after I've had some time with the bag, but my Po Campo Loop Pannier has arrived!

via Po Campo

I went with the "Chartreuse Poppy" which is a bit greener than I imagined it would be. It's very cute!

Makeover complete. Po Campo bag attached. Ready for my commute!

Also my Pashley make-over is complete. With my new tires and grips and pannier, I don't know...might be elegance overload!

Sold My Vintage Mixte.

2011-06-29T21:41:00.000-07:00

I made the decision to sell my 1983 Centurion Le Mans Mixte (Rose). I just didn't have the time to devote to restoring her, and it was a shame to have her sitting in my garage collecting cobwebs. Sadly, I was in over my head. I had one session over at Bikerowave with the bike, and the more work I did, the more I realized how much work (and money, frankly) it was going to require. The wheels were dodgy and were probably going to need to be replaced. I tried to true them but it is apparently an art that I don't have a talent for. The cables and housing needed to be replaced, new tires, new chain, new brake pads, new saddle, etc. etc. It was just too much for me and I had to admit it.

I sold it to a gal who lives in Downtown LA who was going to fix it up for a friend of hers. That's a good friend! I wish her well and hopefully she will send me some pictures when she has it restored. She seemed to know what she was doing, and I know she'll do a better job than I did!

Pashley is Getting a Makeover Today!

2011-06-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

via Pashley

Before.

My Pashley Princess Sovereign is out getting a makeover today at LA Brakeless.

via leatherbicyclesaddles.co.uk

I am replacing the Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires that come with the bike with Schwalble Delta Cruisers in cream with reflective sidewalls. So many of the blogs I follow recommend these tires and the bike looks so lovely with cream tires that I just had to try them.

via Brooks

I also bought Brooks leather grips that match my saddle to replace the old school plastic ones that come with the Pashley.

I also felt that my gears were slipping a bit, so they are checking out that problem as well. LA Brakeless is the bike shop that is closest to my home - I can walk there. It's kind of a hard core fixie shop and my Pashley felt a bit out of place there, but the staff was very friendly and the gentleman who helped me said he knew how to fix a Sturmey Archer hub, so I believe she is in good hands!

I can't wait to see her all made up!

Po Campo Freebie!

2011-06-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

Last week was Bike To Work Week in Chicago. To celebrate, Chicago-based bike bag company Po Campo did a give away on facebook yesterday. If you posted a picture of yourself biking to work, they'd send you a free reflective pin. Sign me up! I had a friend at the office snap a picture in the afternoon. (Sans make-up. Ugh!)

Speaking of Po Campo, I have been seriously considering getting their "Loop Pannier" bag. It seems like a great bike commuting bag and it's way prettier than my current Bontrager Grocery Panniers.

photo via Po Campo

Loop Pannier in Chartreuse Poppy Treated Acrylic

photo via Po Campo

Loop Pannier in Umber Waxed Canvas

photo via Po Campo

Here's how it looks on a bike.

I'm having a heck of a time deciding between these two colors. How about I put it up a to vote?

(There is a poll embedded in this post. Please visit the website to vote.)

Sunny Sunday Ride.

2011-05-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

This past weekend the weather in L.A. was warm warm warm!!! At around 80 degrees by the beach, it was warmer than most days last summer.

Had to turn my bike around to photograph her "good side."

The Pashley was great for the leisurely pace of the beach bike path.

We spent the whole day out and about, she and I.

Centurion Le Mans in Toronto.

2011-04-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

When I was in Toronto last fall, it was my first trip there since I took up cycling. I couldn't believe how bikey Toronto is! I just never realized it before. I saw so many cool bikes including a lot of European style bikes and tons of vintage bikes. This Centurion Le Mans looks like it might be from the same era as my fixer upper (which I have yet to start fixing up). This looks like a very well-loved and well-used vintage bike!

CicLAvia Spring 2011!

2011-04-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

CicLAvia is more than just a one-off now. Today was the second CicLAvia event in Los Angeles, with two more to come this year!!! It was another fantastic day. The weather was perfect. Sunny with highs in the 60's. Here a few choice pics from the day.

The tallest (and most colorful) tall bike I've ever seen!

My bike twin. Rockin' the Bianchi Milano.

She went for a basket while I went for the rack and panniers.

Just a couple of dapper dudes. (Check out the Swiss army bag pannier. Nice.)

Lissette and Nick enjoying the food along the CicLAvia route.

Havin' a great day!

Belly full. Ready to set out.

Looking a bit like a Swobo spokesperson.

Cute girl with a Public bike.

Cute guy and bike twin to my beau! (Riding a Masi Speciale Fixed)

The sights at Hollenbeck Park - AKA the end of the line.

Folks resting up after a long ride.

Cute girl with a vintage Centurion.

My CicLAvia buddies!

How awesome is this? He made the frame himself (for $16!). The bike weighs 155 lbs.

Nick bought himself a Bike Bucket. Nice.

In case you're wondering why I didn't ride the new Pashley - there are a couple of reasons. First, I can't fit that bike in my car. Second, there are some hills on the CicLAvia route that I would not enjoy tackling on the Pashley! The Bianchi is decidedly lighter and zippier.

Yarn Bike.

2011-04-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

Artist olek is responsible for these yarn bikes. I spotted this one in Santa Monica last Fall. I never posted about it, though. Better late than never! I wonder what it looks like now, if it's still there at all.

Dream. Realized.

2011-04-03T16:45:00.000-07:00

I bought a Pashley! She is mine.

Orange 20 Bike Shop special ordered me this Pashley Princess Sovereign.

It is the size and color I requested.

17.5 inch (the smallest). I'm 5'3". Black.

Wonder why I look so happy?!

It's truly a dream bike.

I haven't made any modifications to it yet.

After I ride it for a while I'll see about making a couple of small changes.

Brooks leather grips would be nice.

And maybe a double kickstand.

That's T.J. He took great care of me.

You'll be seeing a lot of this bike on the blog!!! And in case you're wondering, I'll probably be selling the Bianchi. Currently I have the Bianchi and a special fixer-upper-project vintage mixte and now the Pashley. I have room in my garage for 2 but 3 is not realistic.

The day one gets a new bike is truly a great day!!!

Shopping and Brunch by Bike.

2011-03-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

This picture is over a week old but better late than never. Hopped on the bike to head over to Abbot Kinney Blvd. to hit up the great boutique Kolu and brunch at Primitivo Wine Bistro. It was a chilly day and I wasn't feeling very "cycle chic" but I was warm and comfy - which is how I like to be on a Sunday morning.

Me? A Winner?!

2011-03-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it! I actually won something! It's been a running joke between me and boyfriend that neither of us ever win anything. And then yesterday it all changed! I won a pair of Chrome knickers from one of my favorite blogs - Lovely Bicycle!

Image via Chrome.

This is the post that announced my win. And this is the original post about the knickers that were up for grabs.

Image via Chrome.

Unfortunately for Velouria, the pants didn't fit her. Her loss is my gain! As soon as I receive the pants, I'll give them a try and write a review. Look for it here and also over on Lovely Bicycle.

Thank you, Velouria, for finally making me a winner!!!

Rivendell Sighting.

2011-03-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

Last week when I was out at breakfast I spotted a Rivendell Atlantis!

Hi I'm Pretty.

My jealous Bianchi in the background.

Even though Rivendell bikes come from California, I don't see them in the wild all that often. This one was parked outside my favorite breakfast spot (Nichols in Marina Del Rey). When I went inside I secretly checked out the clientele to see if I could figure out who was the Atlantis owner. :) Though the Atlantis would not be my Rivendell of choice (I'd probably go for the Betty Foy or the Quickbeam) it was still fun to see such a beauty up close and personal.

Abbot Kinney Amsterdam.

2011-02-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

Spotted this pretty lady on her Ladies' Electra Amsterdam Sport Custom 3i in Copper Metallic.

Sadly, Electra is not making this model anymore.

You may have spotted Julia Roberts on the Men's version in the movie Eat Pray Love.

Electra Amsterdam Sport Custom 3i in Root Beer Metallic.

Okay so Abbot Kinney Boulevard may not be as dreamy as Bali, but it's not half bad on a brisk and sunny winter day.

Bike Lane Bummer.

2011-01-19T09:14:00.000-08:00

From my commute last Friday:

The bike lane had cones in it for the entire stretch of the Venice Blvd. bike lane that I use.

I believe it was in preparation of some construction that was going to be happening over the weekend.

It made for an interesting commute. Sometimes I had to ride to right of the cones and sometimes to the left depending what was happening in the door zone and in right lane traffic. Sure kept me on my toes!

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

I hope Santa brings you some nice bikey treats!!!

Check out Santa's sweet Red Dutch Bicycle and pannier set. I knew it!

Test Ride: Redline 925

2010-12-23T18:10:00.000-08:00

Today I test rode this bike at Orange 20 Bikes. It is a 44cm 2010 Redline 925. It's a Chromoly steel, single-speed road bike that's designed to be a commuter. It's fitted with full fenders and a plastic chain guard (not pictured here). The bull horn handle bars are an interesting choice (the 2011 version doesn't have them). Despite the warning from the salesman, I actually found them quite comfortable. Even though you're stretched way out on them, you're actually still quite upright and can see everything ahead of you. I found there was quite a bit of toe overlap with the the front wheel. I guess that's just expected because of the compact track geometry of the bike. I'd never used metal toe clips before and I didn't care for them - and I imagine that they could do a lot of damage to one's shoes. Also I found the bike was geared a bit high for me (42:16) (Did I write that correctly?), but for a person with stronger legs I'm sure it'd be fine. It can easily be fitted with a rear rack as well. This bike comes in at under $600, and it's very nice that they make it in a size small enough for a shortie like me! At 5'3" it's really hard to find a diamond frame bike that actually fits me. Overall it's a very cool bike at a great price.

I Had To Do It!

2010-12-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

I went to a sample sale with some friends last night and I was very good. I almost got out the door without buying anything but at the last minute I saw this silk Moschino scarf!

So I brought it home. Can you blame me? I mean really! How cute is this? It had my name all over it. I love silk scarves. I've scored a couple of beautiful Hermes and Pucci on eBay but this one takes the cake. Not only is it the cutest, but the silk is fabulously drapey, slouchy and well...silky. Since I've bought so much grey this Fall/Winter, I'm so happy to have this pop of bright, beautiful color to keep things from getting too bland.

His and Hers Globe Bikes.

2010-11-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

I spotted these his and hers Globe Hauls outside S&W Country Diner in Culver City - a very popular weekend breakfast spot. I think they are Globe Hauls, anyway. They have the frame of the Hauls but the disc brakes of the Globe Live. Maybe the Haul used to come with disc brakes and the newer model on the website does not. Anyway I have a soft spot for the "his and hers" bike idea. So sweet and romantic. I know for a fact that it was a "his" and a "hers" that owned these bikes because I saw them riding off later. :) These bikes seem like a great upgrade from the typical beach cruisers you see all over the LA area. With their cup holders installed on the handlebars, they are all set for some weekend fun.

Happy Thankgiving, Everyone!!!

November in L.A.

2010-11-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

These pictures are over a week old but I still want to share. Los Angeles is particularly beautiful before or after a rain. On this lovely Saturday in November a storm was brewing, but my friend Gigi and I decided to meet up for a bike ride to Santa Monica using the Beach Bike Path. While I was waiting for Gigi to arrive at our meeting spot, I snapped these pictures.

Gigi arrives! Note how her pink shoe laces match her bike. So Gigi. :)

CicLAvia Report Part 4 - Bonus Pictures by Omar.

2010-11-07T20:42:00.000-08:00

By now CicLAvia is a distant (but fond) memory. However, I just got in these pictures from my friend Omar which I just had to post.

All photos by Omar E. Gonzalez.

Unfortunately he's not in any of these pictures but that's his bike in the last shot!

New Fall Goodies!

2010-11-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

Normally I'm not a big shopping girl but I must say this Fall I've seen so many wonderful things I want to buy - and I've bought a few of them!

My most recent purchase are these adorable arm warmers from REI.

I just love how they keep your fingers free for gear changing. Living in LA it's never really freezing here so these should be plenty warm. And that little button detail is tooooo cute!

I also got these awesome boots on sale at Land's End.

You won't be able to find these anymore on their website, as they seem to be all sold out. My sister got in just under the wire and purchased them in black! They do have a couple of other similar styles, though, I'm not sure the quality of those quite rivals these. These were called the Women's Favorite Riding Boot. I'm pretty sure they meant horse riding but I'm gonna pretend they meant bike riding! I love the cognac color and they are super high quality. I thought I remember the website saying they were Italian but they are stamped "Made in Mexico." Either way they are beautifully made and will last me for many years to come.

I also got a pair of Highwaist Skinny Jeans (I refuse to call them "jeggings") on sale (40% off!) by 7 For All Mankind.

The pictures are a little deceptive. On me they come way up above my belly button which I love. They kind of a have an 80's feel to them and the fact that they are high waisted means no worries when I'm riding my bike cause they won't slip down and reveal any underwear waistbands. And they'll be great for tucking into my new boots!

I also got some fun, cheap sweaters and a great scarf from H&M. I'll be posting pictures of those as I wear them.

For some reason almost everything I've bought this year is some version of grey - it seems to be my theme for the season! Now if I can just find some grey suede shoes!

Thanks for putting up with my conspicuous consumption. I hope I didn't bore you.

I Voted.

2010-11-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

And I biked there.

Surly Pop Physique.

2010-11-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Pop Physique is a new exercise studio in my great neighborhood of Mar Vista. It's sort of a fusion of mat pilates, barre method and light weight training. It's a great workout in an hour. I went on Sunday and my abs still hurt today on Tuesday.

As I was locking up my bike I spotted this lovely Surly Long Haul Trucker at the next parking meter. With it's small size, swept back handlebars and practical basket it seemed decidedly girly to me. It turned out the owner of the bike was indeed another woman who was in the Pop Physique class. I didn't get a picture of her hopping on and riding off because she was so quick! Maybe next time.

CicLAvia Report Part 3 - Me and my Homies.

2010-10-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Today's CicLAvia report will focus on the wonderful group of friends I was with that day.

Me looking um...shiny.

Nate. You might recognize this guy.

Lissette (who designed my awesome banner).

Sara. She's pregnant but she didn't let that stop her!

Lissette and Sara - posing oh so naturally.

Omar. He has a MUCH better camera than I do. :)

Mmmmmm. Jamaica.

Omar and his bike - he won it in a raffle.

Our bike gang - the sweet version.

Our bike gang - the surly version.

Bike gang - with Omar.

Sara and her new bike.

Nate and Omar checking out a street performer.

Lissette "racing."

Fun with bike racks.

Nick and his new bike.

Taking a rest on the 4th Street Bridge.

We all had such a great time. I'm so thankful that my friends were able to come out and share such an incredible day together.

Dress for your Tweed Ride! Harris Tweed Cape for Sale.

2010-10-15T19:15:00.000-07:00

I've noticed a few Tweed Rides are popping up around the country. Earlier this year I purchased a beautiful Harris Tweed cape I thought I might want to wear at a Tweed Ride. However, even though the cape is a one-size-fits-most deal, it is quite long. At 5'3" I feel rather swamped by it. Before putting it back on eBay, I thought I'd see if any of my readers are interested in buying it. It's genuine Harris Tweed from Scotland, and it is a nice, substantial winter weight. It is in perfect condition.

E-Mail me at thisgirlsbike@me.com if you're interested. Price is $120 plus $15 for shipping.

CicLAvia Report Part 2 - The Sights.

2010-10-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

Here are few more pictures from CicLAvia.

A view from MacArthur Park.

One of the rest/information stops.

Crossing an intersection.

Shiny, happy people.

Helpful police officer managing intersection.

A street performer.

The neighborhood.

Bike-shaped bike racks!

A view from 4th Street Bridge.

More of 4th Street Bridge.

Downtown in the background.

Bridge over railroad tracks.

4th Street is a bit hilly!

A cutesy beach cruiser.

There are so many blogs out there that have posted incredible pictures of the event that I have to say I'm a bit ashamed to post mine but ah well...this is what I got. :)

CicLAvia Report Part 1 - People Watching.

2010-10-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

CicLAvia was truly a dream. I still kind of can't believe it was real. The most common refrain I heard all day was "This is so cool." Variations included "This is so amazing," "This is so dope," "This is the best day ever," and "Can you believe we get to do this?"

Today's post will focus on some of the lovely people spotted at CicLAvia.

Spotted: Cosmo from Los Angels Cycle Chic - Making even baby wearing look chic!

I love this guy's jersey - is that a Mayan calendar?

A Bike Twin!

This lovely lady above told me her name and I'm sorry to say I've forgotten it. She has a rose-colored Centurian Le Mans Mixte very similar to mine! Hers, however, is in beautiful condition. Mine needs, ahem, a little work. We had a nice chat about the bikes and she said she'd look for my blog so I hope she's seeing this!

Check out her "Beer View Mirror." How cute is that?!

Cycle Chic Perfection!

How cute is this girl? Check out how her little owl bag matches her olive green Biria bike. And those little yellow flats? Amazing. I'd never heard of these bikes before. It seems like it's a really reasonably-priced, cute city bike. The guy standing behind her is awesome too.

CicLAvia Teaser Pic.

2010-10-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

I won't have time until later today or tomorrow to do a real post on CicLAvia. I can tell you it was a FANTASTIC (albeit a bit hot) day. Kudos to all the people who must have worked tremendously hard to put it all together. I promise that at the next event I will volunteer. Here's one little picture. This is what LA might look like if all the cars suddenly disappeared.

On 4th Street Bridge - Downtown looming in the background.

CicLAvia.

2010-10-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

CicLAvia 2010 Route Map

The blogosphere is already saturated with information about CicLAvia. But just in case you didn't know:

"CicLAvia consists of the temporary opening of streets to residents so they may enjoy a safe and pleasant space for walking, jogging, skating or riding a bike. CicLAvia differs from permanent bike routes because it is a temporary space whose principal use is not transport, but recreation. In general, CicLAvia occurs on a fixed day of the week (usually Sundays and in some cases on holidays) and has an average duration of six hours."

I'm so proud of our Los Angeles cycling community for putting this together against all odds. It's here! Tomorrow! I'll be there. Will you?

Official CicLAvia Site

This post at the Gary Rides Bikes blog has lots of useful information about feeder rides that are riding over to CicLAvia from all different parts of town.

Cycling in the Rain. A Bikey First!

2010-10-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

The past year and change that I've been cycling has been such a wonderful experience, and it's been full of "firsts." This week I rode my bike in the rain for the first time. I am not a full-time bike commuter so this was purely by choice. I know all you other hard-core kids out there are doing it so I thought why not?

Leaving the office to cycle home in the evening rain.

My outfit was practical if not completely waterproof.

Long sleeve merino wool cycling jersey - Swobo

Trent coat - Target

Jeans - Citizens of Humanity

Boots - Rubber rain boots

Gloves - Head ($10 from Costco. I keep them in my panniers at all times.)

Helmet - Bern Watts

My bike is always prepared for rain because it has full fenders and lights. The only special thing I had to was to put plastic bags over my panniers because they are not waterproof.

The ride was was exhilarating! One gentleman on the sidewalk told me that he also rides a bike and he was very impressed with my biking-in-the-rain set-up! He also said that he enjoys biking in the rain.

I did end up pretty wet! (crappy iPhone picture)

I'd definitely do it again! However if I was riding to a place where I had to look presentable, I'd bring a change of clothes and make sure to allow my self enough time to clean myself up a bit.

While this week has been cool and rainy, we are heading into a sunny weekend with temps in the 80's!

Diagnosing Rose.

2010-10-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

You may remember a while back I posted that I bought a vintage mixte to restore. I haven't posted anything about it since because, well, it's been sitting in my garage. I promised myself that I'd take care of a few more pressing matters in my life (like finishing two years of back taxes) before starting on this project. Well today I took the first step in getting it started. We took the bike (which I've named Rose) over to Bikerowave to see what kind of shape she's really in. My plan is to get the bike in working order while spending as little money as possible. I'd like to ride it for a while and evaluate it before spending a bunch of money on replacing components. The one thing I plan on splurging on, though, is a Brooks saddle. My reasoning here is that I can always use the saddle on another bike, and it'll last me a lifetime.

Over the next few weeks I'll post some pictures of the "before" state of the bike. Here's a teaser:

Photo Credit: Omar Gonzalez

The diagnosis from a very helpful volunteer at Bikerowave (Ryan) is that the bike is in pretty decent shape over all. It will need new tires, new cables and housing, new brake pads, and possibly a new chain. I also plan on doing quite a bit of cosmetic cleaning. They carry pretty much everything I need at Bikerowave, so the whole thing should be pretty painless and not too expensive. I can't wait to get started!

Beautiful Beach Commute.

2010-10-03T13:21:00.000-07:00

Friday evening commute.

I have a feeling that as long as I am this temporary office by the beach and my commute includes this lovely bit of beach bike path, there will be a lot of pictures like this. :)

The sunsets have been so beautiful this past couple of weeks in Los Angeles. The harvest moon on the equinox was just incredible. It's been a lovely time to be out on the bike.

Beachy Fall Commute.

2010-09-29T20:12:00.000-07:00

As I embarked on my commute home tonight, this was what I saw.

As I rode over to the beach to get a better look at the sunset I realized I could actually take the beach bike path for part of my ride home.

I'll definitely be making this a regular part of my commute!

This is when I really love where I live.

Aaaah.

Recently we had a fire at our regular office, so we've been working out of a temporary place which is just steps from the beach. That's why I happened upon this beautiful scene as soon as I left the office. I feel very lucky - especially on these last few warm days and balmy nights. As I've been riding my bike to work and back, I keep finding better and better routes. I think I've finally found the perfect way though. The beach bike path and the Venice Boulevard bike lanes make up about 90% of my commute. A small jaunt through a peaceful neighborhood is the other 10%.

Creative Solutions.

2010-08-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

At the Farmers' Market last Sunday I spotted this father/son duo.

Check out the clever storage solution for their Farmers' Market goodies!

Dad checking on his kid and cargo.

As I was snapping pics I overheard the gal in the booth asking the dad about their bike. It's definitely an attention getter!

I recently picked up this milk crate for my own bike (in red) but I haven't installed it yet. I was thinking of zip-tying it to my rear rack and trying out the idea of just throwing stuff into the crate instead of my current two-pannier storage system. I've never been able to find a front basket that I thought looked right on my bike, but I've always longed for the ease of a basket you can just toss your stuff into.

For those of you wondering why I actually bought one and didn't just grab a milk crate from behind a restaurant, there a couple of reasons. These crates from The Container Store are smaller than the kind found at restaurants and grocery stores and seem more appropriately sized for my bike and my rack, and at $10 I thought it was a bargain on-bike storage solution. But more importantly taking a dairy crate from a restaurant is stealing, no? I'm not sure if it's stealing from the restaurant or the dairy but either way I'd rather just plunk down $10 and have a clear conscious.

Charge Lazy Susan.

2010-08-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Recently I've come across a really cool bike on the internet. I've yet to see it in person because I can't find a shop that stocks them in LA. Charge Bikes seems to be a British company. All the retailers on the website are in the UK. I have seen the fixed gear Charge Plug in an LA shop but not this sweetie - The Lazy Susan.

Photo via Charge Bikes

Isn't that a gorgeous bike? They've taken the step-through/Dutch/city bike and made it completely modern, a little bit punk rock and not at all prissy. Personally I have no qualms with a girly girl bike but for some women (maybe like the one in the photo below) something with a little more edge is in order. I love the angular chain guard, the clean lines, the silver fenders, and the stunning burnt-orange color. Notable specs are a Sturmey-Archer 3 speed hub , drum brakes, and an integrated rear rack.

Photo via road.cc

In the above picture you can see the bike provides an upright riding position like a traditional European city bike.

Photo via road.cc

Does anyone have experience with a rack like this? Though it's absolutely beautiful, I wonder about its utility. The tubes seems very large. I don't think I'd be able to get my hard plastic pannier hooks around them. Also I'd be worried about scratching up the beautiful paint on the rack with the pannier hooks. I've always wondered about how well painted racks hold up in general.

Photo via Ridelow Bikes

Maybe a pannier set with leather straps like above would solve the problem - but those kinds of panniers are not as easy on/easy off as the kinds that mount with hooks.

Photo via road.cc

Another fun feature is the retro-looking shifter. Apparently those are the graphics of the old-school Sturmey Archer shifter. Very cute. The three speed hub might be a deal breaker for people who live in hilly cities.

Has anyone out there seen the Lazy Susan in the wild, or ridden one? There seem to be a couple of online retailers that sell them here in the U.S. for around $700.

If it were my bike I believe I would change out the saddle. The stock saddle looks a little cheap. I'd also do something about those rubberized grips. Finally I would look for a front basket that was harmonious with the chic modernism of the bike - maybe a Wald Woody or a Velo-Orange Porteur Rack. This beauty below by Axiom is a rear basket but it's oh so chic.

Photo via Chubby's Cruisers

For a good review and more pictures of the bike check out road.cc.

Gentlemen, if you can't quite rock an orange step-through, they also make the Steamer. Not quite as charming somehow but still really cool.

Photo via Charge Bikes

Mad Man on a Bike.

2010-08-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

After mulling it over for a while, I see no reason why I shouldn't post the occasional photo of a handsome man on a bike. If this bores any of my male readers, I apologize - but only a little bit.

As the new season of "Mad Men" is in full swing, I feel it's a good to time to post this photo of actor John Slattery who plays Roger Sterling on the show.

Talk about Hollywood glamour.

This photo appears to be on the studio lot with the actor in costume. Everything about this picture is kind of perfect. The suit, the script, the sunglasses, the way the light shines on the tie clip, the bike, the beauty of the photograph itself...sigh. It looks like it could have been taken in the 60's.

I've liked John Slattery for a long time. Some of you might remember him from his stint as Carrie's politician boyfriend (with a peccadillo or two) on Sex and the City.

And if you're like me and you just like John Slattery or his character on "Mad Men," here are a couple of bonus shots. (Sorry no bikes in these.)

Roger Sterling.

This Girl's Bike in no way endorses smoking. ;)

Younger. Less silver. Still handsome.

My Review of Mirrycle Saturn Bell

2010-07-20T16:38:00.001-07:00

Originally submitted at REI

This beautifully designed bell has a sound that fills space.

Good bell. Great value.

By dreamlet from Los Angeles on 7/20/2010

Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational

This bell has no parts that stick out that can get caught on things or broken. Its design is simple, sleek and would go with almost any bike. My handlebars are black and it really just blends right in. The bell's tone is loud and clear and cheery. At only $10, it really is a great buy.

(legalese)

Fisherman's Village by Bike.

2010-07-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

Though some parts of LA have been really hot this weekend, here on the Westside it's been beautiful. My boyfriend and I took a ride to The Fisherman's Village in Marina Del Rey yesterday. We didn't know we were going there. We just wanted to go for a bike ride and that's where we ended up.

We started on the Ballona Creek Bike Path. Where the Ballona Creek Bike Path meets the Marvin Braude Beach Bike Path there is this sweet little area where cyclists rest, people fish, and there is a gorgeous view of the Marina all around.

L.A. people at play.

Bikes, fishing and dogs go well together.

Love his fishin' outfit.

Fixies can enjoy the Marina too.

Beach cruisers. The most commonly seen bike in the area.

Fishing poles without their people.

Just pretty.

Cool dudes.

Sorry for the blurry shot - but she's on a Bianchi Milano so I had to include it!

Gotta give the roadies some love too.

We turned back and made our way to the Fisherman's Village.

They had unusual bike racks. My Bianchi and my boyfriend's Masi locked up.

A swing band provided entertainment.

My parents used to bring us here when we were kids, but I'd never been back as an adult.

From the looks of it these guys spend a lot of time on that roof.

The beau.

It was a gorgeous day and a nice, relaxing ride. Ah Saturdays...doesn't get much better.

This post is an entry for the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games. (New Territory - Explore a new part of town by bike.)

Welcome, Gigi!

2010-07-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

This is a belated 4th of July entry. On the 4th my friend Gigi and are were headed to a house party in Redondo Beach which is about 15 miles away from my house. I asked her if she had a bike because we could ride our bikes down the Marvin Braude Beach Bike Path almost the whole way. She said she didn't have a bike, but she'd been looking for one. A few hours later, because of the magic of craigslist, she had this sweet single speed Schwinn conversion!

Isn't it the cutest bike ever?!

In college she used to ride a bike all the time out of necessity, but now she wants to ride for all the other reasons. We took the Ballona Creek Bike Path for part of the way, and then linked up with the Beach Bike Path. Most of the ride was during magic hour and dusk and it was really beautiful.

Ballona Creek Bike Path

The beach bike path was packed with pedestrians so it made the bike ride quite challenging and slow going, but in a couple of hours we were there and we rode by a park just in time to sit down and watch the fireworks show.

Enjoying the fireworks show at a Redondo Beach Park.

After that we headed to the house party. Everyone thought we were a little nuts for riding our bikes that far but we chose to think it was the good kind of nuts. Some time after midnight we set out for the 15 mile ride back home. At that time of night the beach bike path was a lot less crowded with people, but the degree of drunkenness of the people who were out was a lot higher, so it was still a challenge. We got home late, we were tired, but we were exhilarated.

I'd actually never been to Redondo Beach, so that was a new experience for me. Also, 30 miles is the most I've ever ridden in a single day. It was a day of firsts!

I'm so glad Gigi has her great new bike, and I look forward to many more rides together!

A bonus shot of Gigi and her bike. A little blurry but she looks so happy!

This post is an entry for the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games. (New Territory - Explore a new part of town by bike.)

Oops!... I did It Again!

2010-07-08T23:15:00.000-07:00

I bought another bike! I've been looking for a vintage mixte that is a bit of a fixer upper. I'd like to repair it, replace some components, and generally use it as a training ground to learn about bicycle repair and maintenance. After months of browsing Craigslist, I came across this beauty last night. Tonight after work I took the plunge and drove 70 miles (each way) to get it. I don't know much about it yet except that it's a Centurion LeMans - maybe from the early 80's? I'll post more pictures and close ups this weekend. I'll be posting updates as I fix her up!

Her name is Rose. :) Had her for two hours now.

Selling Art by Bike.

2010-07-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

Cargo bikes really are kind of miraculous. I just took a trip to Palm Coast, Florida to relax with some friends who were renting a house there. We took a boat trip to neighboring St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, I'm told.

There I saw this artist selling his paintings in the town square. His many paintings were propped up against his awesome cargo bike! When I asked him about his bike, he told me it was the glue that held his business together. The city started charging for parking and it became too expensive for him to drive his car so he got this bike. (Okay I know it's actually a trike but in the interest of simplicity I'll just call it a bike.)

Sweet cargo bike.

The paintings.

The artist.

Look at all the stuff he fits on that bike!

Eager customers.

The artist was actually quite busy helping a bunch of customers so I didn't want to take up any more of his time with my bike questions, though I had lots. I think he's a wonderful example of someone who found a creative solution to a problem and makes his bike work for him. And he has a rockin' bike!

Eagle-eyed readers may have noticed that the bike is by Worksman Cycles. They are the original creators of the Good Humor Ice Cream Tricycle, and the oldest existing bicycle manufacturer in America! I think his model is at the top of this page. Unlike a Dutch Bakfiets bike where the cargo box is built in, this bike simply give you a platform on which to put your own box or other cargo. Its payload capacity is a whopping quarter ton! Worksman Cycles are made in the USA. I'm not aware of any other cargo bikes that are. (If you know of any please leave a comment.) Take a moment to read the company's essay on why they continue to build their bikes in New York.

Sharrows!

2010-06-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Avid bike blog readers may be aware that there is a pilot sharrows project going on in Los Angeles right now. They are popping up in a few places. This was my first sighting! I found these near a friend's house in the Miracle Mile/Wilshire Center part of town on a small two block stretch on 4th Street roughly between Wilton and St. Andrews.

These sharrows have been placed within the last couple of weeks.

Sharrows are a particularly cheap way to make cyclists feel safer on the roads and to make drivers aware that cyclists belong on the road and not on the sidewalk. I applaud Los Angeles for getting with the program and installing sharrows. Better late than never! Hopefully the pilot program will be a big success and we'll begin to see them all over the city.

I'm particularly excited to learn that sharrows are planned for Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice. Currently riding on Abbot Kinney is a bit treacherous. It's one lane in each direction with lots of highly-sought-after street parking, opening car doors, pedestrians, aggressive drivers, and perhaps worst of all - wrong way cyclists. Weekends are particularly hairy with people coming from all over to hang out at bars, shop, dine and go to the beach. Despite all this, lots of cyclists (myself included) bravely stake their claim and ride the boulevard. Hopefully the new lane markings will help. I'll post photos of those as soon as they are placed.

Here are links to a few blogs if you want to know more about the Los Angeles sharrows program or cycling in Los Angeles in general.

LADOT Bike Blog
BikingInLA
BikesideLA
Streetsblog Los Angeles

Please comment if you've seen any sharrows in Los Angeles, or if you have sharrows in your home town and would like to comment on whether or not you feel they help.

Bike Lane Blue.

2010-06-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

Riding home from work today I saw these bike cops on Venice Blvd.

When I got home and saw myself in the mirror I realized with my black wool cycling jersey and my silver helmet, I kinda looked like a bike cop myself!

Okay maybe not quite. :)

I would have liked to get some better pictures of the cops but they were pretty fast and dropped me shortly after I snapped that picture.

Bake Sale Hauling.

2010-06-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

I had to do a bit of shopping yesterday on my lunch break. I am participating in a bake sale today, and had to buy some supplies and a few other groceries as well. It was quite a haul so I thought I'd document it. A year ago - before I bought my bike and became interested in the idea of utility cycling, I did not know that such a feat was even possible. Today with the help of a couple of grocery panniers, it's no big deal. Over at EcoVelo Alan wrote a post yesterday about how indispensable grocery panniers are to the utility cyclist. If you needed more proof, here it is.

This is everything I carried with me on my bike. One pannier is my personal stuff (basically the contents of my purse), my work stuff (Kindle etc.), and my bike stuff (U-Lock, bungees, set of gloves in case it gets chilly etc.) and the other pannier was the groceries. I'm proud to report that the eggs got home in perfect condition too!

On my way home I was even asked by a passenger in a car about my panniers. You can see my earlier post about these panniers if you'd like to know more about them. Did all that extra weight make my commute more challenging? Yeah. I was moving a bit slower than usual and I arrived home a bit sweatier than I normally would but it wasn't that big a deal. Carrying the weight on the bike instead of on my body makes it quite doable. Give it a try!

This post is an entry for the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games. (Learning Experiences - Carry a load on your bike.)

Gratuitous Bianchi Beauty Shot.

2010-06-16T21:32:00.000-07:00

Over on Tumblr it's GPOYW - Gratuitous Picture Of Yourself Wednesday. Here it's GPOMBW Gratuitous Picture Of My Bike Wednesday! Enjoy.

Taken on a week day lunch break - Santa Monica bike path.

Coffee Date.

2010-06-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

My boyfriend and I went out for a coffee on our bikes. In an homage to bike blogger and coffee devotee Meligrosa of Bikes and the City and Change Your Life Ride a Bike, I photographed our beautiful coffee drinks from Intelligentsia. Intelligenstia is a bit on the "sceney" side for me, but you can't deny that they make a mean cup of coffee.

Almost too pretty to drink. Almost. :)

Test Riding a Vintage Mixte.

2010-06-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

In an earlier post I mentioned that I'm looking for a project bike that I can refurbish, build up as a single speed, and basically use as a training ground for how to fix a bike. To that end, I test rode this vintage mixte.

I liked the bike, but I'm not convinced it's the right one for me. Really I'd like to find something that is cheaper and more stripped down since I will most likely be replacing most of the components. It's really the frame that I'm after. This one was going for $260. The same day on Craigslist a mixte frame that was already re-powder coated was selling for $100 but I just missed it. I think that would have been perfect!

The bike's owner thought I was a bit unstable when I asked him to take a picture of me on the bike. I fibbed and told him it was so I could better gauge the fit of the bike.

After assuring the bike's owner that I could indeed test a ride a bike in platforms, I gave the bike a spin keeping in mind Velouria's tips for what to look for in a vintage mixte. The mixte had really skinny tires and was positively racy compared to my Bianchi Milano. I was a little apprehensive about trying to shift gears since I'm used to an idiot proof internal gear hub and don't have much experience with derailleurs and no experience at all with those downtube shifters. I did manage to shift into a higher gear once and it was kind of thrilling! My overall impression was how much faster this bike goes compared to mine with the same amount of effort. One feature on the bike that I really liked was that it had brake levers in two positions on the drop handle bars. That made me feel a lot more secure riding with such a different style handle bars.

I'm glad I got to try this bike but I will continue to look.

This post is an entry for the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games. (Learning Experiences - Test ride a different type of bike than you normally ride.)

Secret Admirer.

2010-06-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

Today I rode my bike to the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica to visit the Apple Store and REI.

As part of the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games, I left a fellow cyclist a note on their bike.

Ever since I became interested in bikes I've always had a thing for the Electra Townies. They are just so cute! I like the way this one is accessorized with a wicker basket and brown leather saddle and grips. Very pretty.

I hope my note brightened their day (and that they don't think I'm some kind of stalker)!

If you like the idea of leaving a note for a fellow cyclist take a look at these "Your Bike is Hot" spoke cards.

This post is an entry for the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games. (Social Cycling - Leave a nice note on a bike.)

First Friday on Bikes.

2010-06-06T21:43:00.000-07:00

My boyfriend and I rode our bikes over to Abbot Kinney Blvd. on Friday night. The first Friday of the month is knows as "First Fridays" on Abbot Kinney. The restaurants and shops stay open late and there are a lot of gourmet food trucks parked up and down the street. We had dinner at one of our favorite restaurants The Tasting Kitchen. First Fridays can be a bit overwhelming - the streets are packed with people, many of whom have had a lot to drink. Parking is a nightmare which is why biking there is the best option.

My bike date.

He loves his Masi.

His super cool Chrome cycling shoes.

I didn't enclose any pictures of myself from this night because I forgot to take off my helmet for the photos and I looked like a super dweeb!

This post is an entry for the "Let's Go Ride a Bike" Summer Games. (Social Cycling - Schedule a bike date with a friend or partner.)

Bikerowave and Breakfast.

2010-06-05T14:24:00.000-07:00

Today my boyfriend and I went out for breakfast in the neighborhood and decided on our way to stop by the amazing bike co-op Bikerowave. Wow! For only $7 an hour you can learn bike repair from an expert and have access to all the tools and space you need to repair or build up a bike. The guys in the shop were as cool as can be, the place is not-for-profit, and is staffed by passionate volunteers. It's really special. I have a dream of finding a little vintage mixte frame and building it up as a single speed like this, and once I find the frame I'll be doing all the work at Bikerowave. I have a lot to learn about bike maintenance, repair and building, but the idea of being self sufficient and being able to fix or build up my own bike is really exciting.

Breakfast was at this great place The Curious Palate.

Our bikes patiently waiting for us to finish breakfast.

Both these places are just a couple of examples of how great the neighborhood of Mar Vista is. I've only been living here for a few months and I'm really loving it. It has a nice, neighborhood feel and it's incredibly walkable or bikeable. New great places are popping up all the time, the bike lane on Venice Blvd. is great, and we're just 2 miles from the ocean!

A Tall Bike Sighting.

2010-05-23T18:28:00.000-07:00

Impractical in every way and also very amusing.

Bike To Work Week - Part 2.

2010-05-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

National Bike-to-Work Day - May 21, 2010

National Bike-to-Work Week was great. I commuted on my bike three days out of five. I did all my errands that I'm not yet equipped to do on my bike (dropping off and picking up laundry at fluff n' fold, buying 40 lbs of cat litter) on Monday and Tuesday so I was free to ride my bike the rest of the week.

Product Review: Bontrager "Grocery Bag" Panniers.

2010-05-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

(Photo via Bontrager)

In case you're wondering pannier is pronounced "panyair." In order to avoid sounding like a greenhorn, avoid saying "paneer" which is an Indian or Farsi word for cheese. A pannier is otherwise known as a saddlebag but everyone knows that no woman wants to even have that word in her vocabulary, so pannier it is

The Bontrager Grocery Bag Pannier sells for $50. At first I thought that was bit pricey but the quality of the bag is really excellent. I liked it so much after I bought it that I bought a second one. The hooks fit snuggly on my Planet Bike Eco Rack (which I adore) and they don't budge. I always have at least one of them with me when I'm on my bike. I've even received compliments on the bag when off the bike from people who thought it was just a purse . Personally, I don't think it makes an attractive purse but it's nice to know maybe it's not screaming "pannier." The bags are sturdy and they hold a lot of stuff. There's even an inner liner that comes out and lets the bag hold even more. I have not tried using the bag in the rain, but I don't think they are considered especially waterproof. Besides the small outer pocket there is a very small inner pocket but other than that there's just one large inner space. My one wish is that they were a bit prettier or had a bit more personality but I understand why they made them so generic - they are really a utilitarian pannier anyone can use. Overall I'm very happy with these bags and would definitely recommend them.

Bike To Work Week.

2010-05-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

If you are a reader bike blogs I'm sure you know it's National Bike to Work Week. I'll leave it to other much better informed blogs to report on all the details. I'm trying to step it up this week and bike to work as much as possible.

Bike commuting is great! Give it a try if you haven't already.

A Bike Date.

2010-05-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

This bike date was actually back in January. Going through my iPhoto library I realize that I have so many pictures I've taken for the blog that I haven't posted! So I'm going to do some catching up. On this chilly night we went to The Tasting Kitchen in Venice with some friends. If you live in LA it's really a must try restaurant - one of my new favorites. The restaurant is only a couple of miles away from my boyfriend's place so it was a great opportunity to go on a bike date. Our friends were so impressed that we rode our bikes there - and we didn't have to valet park. The only thing I wish I had brought that night was gloves! I've since learned that lesson and always keep a pair of gloves in my pannier. Sorry for the really poor flash photography. Must work on my digital photography skills!

"Let's Go Ride A Bike" Summer Games

2010-05-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite bike blogs is "Let's Go Ride A Bike." Dottie (in Chicago) and Trisha (in Nashville) ride their beautiful bikes every day, live car-free, do it all with style, and love every minute of it. This summer they are holding a contest and the grand prize is a Batavus Bub! I will be participating and blogging about it here. Stay tuned!

Taken from their website:

How to play, you ask?

It’s easy. There are three main categories, and six events in each category. Complete events in each category over a three week period, and tell us about it via blog post link, email or photo addition to our Summer Games Flickr Pool. Entries must include a story and a photo of each event you complete. If you enter via a post on your own blog, please link to this announcement in your entry, include one of our badges and let us know via email.

Anyone who completes at least two events in each of the three categories will be entered to win the Batavus BuB by random drawing. We’re also giving away prizes as readers complete each category.

May 17-June 6: Social Cycling

Go on a group ride
Leave a nice note on a bike, or say hi to a cyclist at a red light
Schedule a bike date with a friend or partner — dress up!
Recruit a non-biking friend for a ride
Ride with your family

June 7-June 27: Learning Experiences

Perform a maintenance task — big or small!
Decorate your bike
Read a book about cycling
Carry a load on your bike — groceries, etc.
Test ride a different type of bike than you normally ride

June 28-July 18: New Territory

Ride a greenway
Have a bicycle picnic
If you don’t normally ride to work, commute by bike, or by bike/train or bike/bus
If you do commute, take the long way home: add distance to your usual ride
Explore a new part of town by bike

Jessica Schroeder is my Bike Twin!

2010-05-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

(Photos via What I Wore)

Recently Jessica Schroeder over at her wonderful fashion blog "What I Wore" announced that she just bought a new bike. And that new bike happens to be a Bianchi Milano! Being the style maven that she is, she even managed to accessorize the bike perfectly - finding a basket that actually looks good on it. I've never been able to find the right basket for this bike.

Originally I wandered over to her sight because another bike blog had pointed out her cute vintage bike that she rides around Brooklyn. Well I guess it was finally time to turn that bike in.

Congratulations, Jessica, on your new bike! I hope you enjoy it!

I don't know why it's so fun to spot bike twins. Do you look for your bike twins around your town and on the internet?

The Ladies of Masi.

2010-05-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

(All images via Masi)

When I was browsing the Masi website today I was impressed to see that they used women in many of their pictures. In fact I saw more pictures of female models than male models! These pictures were so great I couldn't use just one.

These pictures feature the steel single speed/fixed gear Speciale Commuter. I love the bike but I worry that even the shortest (49) might be a bit tall for me. My boyfriend rides the Speciale Fixed which is a very similar bike but is geared higher and may have a bit more of a track geometry (this part I'm not sure about).

I think it's pretty cool that a hard core bike company like Masi chose to use women in their promotional pictures. And what makes it extra great is that they are real-looking women wearing normal clothes and that the Speciale Commuter is not a women's specific bike. Kudos, Masi!!!

If you've never ridden a Masi I suggest you find your LBS that carries them and go test ride one. They are SWEET!

(P.S. Don't you just love her t-shirt in that last picture? Where do I get one of those?)

Scwhinn Television Commercial!

2010-04-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

A television commercial for bikes! Wow! Can you remember the last time you saw one? And it's so cute! My favorite part (of course) is when the Blackberry turns into a pug puppy. It really captures that feeling of fun and freedom that one has when cycling. And of course I like the fact that the commercial features a cute girl who manages to even be cute while wearing a helmet. Positive messages abound!

Moi A Poseur?! The Chrome Messenger Bag and Me.

2010-04-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

I'm just not this cool.

(Photo via Chrome)

When I was growing up one of the worst things you could call a person was a poseur. There were surf poseurs, skate poseurs, punk poseurs, arty poseurs, gangsta poseurs and goth poseurs - all of them reviled. This has instilled in me a great fear of being a poseur.

I read all the blogs wherein hardcore-urban-cyclist-warriors who have been trolling the mean city streets on their trusty fixed-gear steeds (apparently since the time they were in diapers) wax poetic about the demise of their beloved, idiosyncratic culture. Just google "Walmart Fixie" to get a taste. And I get it. I really do. It's an awful, sinking feeling when the little rock band or gritty neighborhood or underground artist or bizarre subculture (pick your obsession) you love goes mainstream. You no longer feel special. There's nothing to set YOU (the awesome, cool person who is clearly way ahead of the unwashed masses in both style and intelligence) apart from THEM (the poseurs!)

Look, I'm new to this cycling thing. I was never a bike messenger in San Francisco. I had never even heard the term "fixie" until I started researching bikes last year. Therefore if I ride with a Chrome Messenger Bag strapped to my back does that make me a poseur? The horror! I received a beautiful Chrome Messenger Bag from my boyfriend for my birthday back in November and I have yet to use it because I fear I may not be hardcore enough to rock it. How sad is that? It's fluorescent pink, totally over the top, and utterly cool. I've never seen another one like it. Maybe this Spring I'll screw up the courage to use it - poseur or not.

Sadly, along the same lines, I got a sweet swrve wool cycling cap and it is also collecting dust in my closet.

Not this cool either.

(Photo via swrve)

Coveting this.

2010-04-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

(Photo via Barneys Co-Op)

OK. It's not exactly cycling related but I saw this bag at Barneys Co-Op and it has me drooling. It's by Italian maker Sissi Rossi and it's just gorgeous. It's buttery soft, floppy and expensive. The feature I really love about it is the long strap that allows you to wear it cross body. It would work so well on a bicycle! I can't possibly justify spending $800 on a bag (especially if it doesn't say "Chanel" on it) so I won't be buying this bag but I will be looking for something like it that doesn't cost a fortune. Sigh.

If you have any suggestions please leave them for me in the comments.

Sorry, Lissette!

2010-04-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

When my good friend Lissette (the wonderful artist who created my banner) read my last post, she kindly reminded me that actually she was the first friend of mine to get a "bike consult." Oops! A few months ago I helped her pick out a Fuji Palisade 2.0 from Orange 20 Bikes.

(Photo via Fuji Bikes)

Her bike is Gun Metal Gray, not Cranberry. It's a fun, zippy 7-speed bike with a pretty upright riding posture, and it's very reasonably priced. It even comes with a beverage holder.

Sorry, Lissette! Let's go riding soon!

Welcome, Dave!

2010-04-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

Dave and his new Electra Townie 7D

This is my friend Dave. He asked me to go bike shopping with him to help him pick out a new bike. It's been many years since he's been on a bike. It was the first time I've done a true "bike consult" and it was so much fun! He wanted a bike that was comfortable and easy to use for tooling around town and the beach on the weekends and perhaps riding to work on occasion - work being just a few miles from his home - and he knows himself well enough to know he's not a speed demon. After considering several options at a few different bike shops he settled on the Townie - which I think is a great choice! I was seriously considering the same bike when I first started shopping. He especially loved the orange accents on the black bike. It really is quite stylish, and it's a great value to boot. It's definitely a bike to consider if your new to the world of cycling, or you're considering any kind of cruiser or comfort bike.

He also got a helmet, a pump, a lock, a bottle cage and bottle, and a set of lights. He's all set!

Now I'm going to e-mail him a link to Bicycling Street Smarts so he'll feel safe and well-equipped on the road.

Wisteria Lane.

2010-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

No bikes in these pictures. This is just an example of the kind of beauty that's easily missed when you're driving in your car.

Happy Spring, Everyone!

Los Angeles Tweed Ride!

2010-03-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

My first Tweed Ride was so much fun. It was a little hot here in LA for tweed (about 90°) but everyone got kitted out nonetheless for a nice, slow tour of Hollywood. There were a lot of people there. Does any reader know how many people attended? It felt like maybe 100 people.

My dapper dandy.

Taking over a lane on Hollywood Blvd.

Some folks had great vintage bikes. Check out that light!

One of the stops along the way - The Cole House.

That's no clip on tie!

The final stop - The Cat & Fiddle Pub

The lucky winner of the Fat Tire Ale cruiser bike!!!

Thanks again to the awesome volunteers at C.I.C.L.E. for putting together such a great day. C.I.C.L.E. (Cyclists Inciting Change thru Live Exchange) is a wonderful bike advocacy group here in L.A. anyone can join.

L.A. Tweed Ride!

2010-03-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

The awesome folks over at C.I.C.L.E. have organized another Tweed Ride for L.A. I was unable to attend the last one so I'm super excited about this one.

Now I just have to figure out what to wear!!!

More info on the ride from the c.i.c.l.e. website:

Meet at Hollywood High at high noon for tea, scones, and an introduction to the ride and contests. This afternoon jaunt will depart at 1pm.

Dress in your finest duds and mingle alongside some of the most dashing characters in this Los Angeles bicycle ride that's sure to become an annual event.

Stops on the ride will include some of the best historic and memorable landmarks in Hollywood such as the Egyptian Theater, Cole House and Good Humor Building, which will all make for some spiffy photos.

Post ride hooch for those who are interested at the Cat and Fiddle Pub, made famous by many things including the film, Casablanca. There will be New Belgium Brewing drink specials and a snazzy cruiser bike raffle, benefiting C.I.C.L.E.

You won’t want to miss this great ride! As with all Urban Expeditions, this ride is less than 10 miles and tailored towards beginner-intermediate rider levels. Bring a snack, water, and a bicycle in good working condition.

Contests for these categories:
· Best Tweed Dress: Male and Female
· Most Likely to be on a Fox Hunt
· Best Dressed Bike
· Best Mustache: Male and Female
· Best Hat
· Best Socks
· Best Hollywood Glamour Style- Male and Female

Meet: On the Hollywood High School lawn on the corner of Sunset and Orange.
1521 North Highland Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90028-7096

Time: High Noon

RSVP via Facebook: tr.im…

Art, Moving, Organzing, Commuting.

2010-03-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

"Take a Cruise" by Lauren Singer

Photo courtesy of www.ilufflife.com

I am the proud new owner of this beautiful bike painting! Ever since I've been smitten with bikes I've been equally smitten with bike-related art. It's such a simple but beautiful subject. It's no wonder artists have been painting and photographing bikes forever!

This beautiful painting will get prime real estate in my new living room. I just moved into a new apartment last month - hence the major lag between posts! The great news is that I am now just 2.5 miles from work so bike commuting is so much easier! My former commute was almost 10 miles so riding to work was doable but it was kind of a big production and I could only manage it maybe once a week.

The hard part of the move has been downsizing my life. I've definitely lost a lot of space. With the help of a professional organizer, I'm paring my belongings down to the essentials - if it doesn't serve me and I don't love it, it's gotta go! Cycling is such a wonderful way to simplify your life. If I'm driving my car to work I lug my huge purse AND my huge "work bag" with me every day. If I'm riding my bike I really have to decide what is important to bring with me. It forces me to be more organized!

I'm working towards the goal of riding to work 3 days a week - very reasonable especially now that the weather is so perfect in LA!

How NOT to Lock Your Bike.

2010-02-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

This wheel has been attached to this bike rack in Venice by this U-Lock for many moons.

It's one of those poorly designed bike racks that makes it difficult to lock your frame to the rack, as some unlucky person learned the hard way.

Unfortunately, the owner of this Linus Dutchi came along and locked up in exactly the same way! Locking your bike this way allows a thief to simply walk off with your entire bike minus the front wheel.

Bad idea!

You're better off by not putting your wheel into those slats and locking your bike frame to the outside of the bike rack instead. Or lock up on a nearby street sign or parking meter.

Never ever lock up your bike by its wheel alone!

In case you're wondering how you should lock your bike, check out the following links:

Lock up tips from Kryponite

Lock up tips from LADOT (Los Angeles Department of Transportation)

Lock up tips from Missing Link Bicycle Co-op

Lock up tips from The National Bike Registry

If you have any good lock up tips or helpful links, please leave them in the comments!

P.S. Kudos to anyone who actually goes to the trouble of removing their front wheel when they lock up. I don't even know how to take mine off yet.

Mar Vista Turkey Ride.

2010-01-31T20:05:00.000-08:00

My boyfriend and I enjoyed our first group ride on Thanksgiving morning. The Mar Vista Turkey Ride includes eight impressive hills. After conquering them, we felt better about filling our bellies with turkey.

Preparing for the ride.

Topping off the tubes. My boyfriend's ride: a Masi Speciale Fixed (2009)

The cyclists begin to gather.

Pre-ride chit chat.

Ready to take off!

Here we go.

The finish line. I got back before my boyfriend (center), but I think may have skipped a hill!

Feeling good after the ride!

We did it!

The reward!