Author Archives: Dan

Bicycle Shock Absorbers

September 22, 2014 1:39 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

If you’re just an average Sunday bicyclist, chances are good you never thought much about your bike’s suspension system. But if you’re a serious cyclist and performance is your gig, then bicycle shock absorbers are something you’re going to want to know something about. They play an important role in how your bike responds to different terrain and how comfortable it is to ride on rough surfaces.

Back in the day, 1869 to be more exact, one of the first true bicycles was called rather affectionately “the boneshaker”. It doesn’t take much reach of the imagination to figure out how it earned this moniker because it was extremely uncomfortable to ride. And that can be contributed to its construction. It was quite a cumbersome beast sporting wooden wheels and a wrought iron frame. While its creators did have the foresight to know suspension was important, it was nothing more than a long flat spring upon which a saddle-type seat was affixed. If you had to travel a very rough road, a-bouncing you would go.

That’s quite a throw-back when you consider the technology involved in the suspension systems of bicycles today, especially on high-performance mountain and hybrid bikes. And, even though you can find them on any type of bicycle, nothing is more important than the shock absorber. If you’re really venturing out for some rugged 2-wheeling the right shocks can mean the difference between a terrifying ride and soaring with the eagles.

What do bicycle shock absorbers do?

The most obvious is they allow the wheel to move up and down when it meets an obstacle without jarring the rider.

The shock also helps to control the speed of the axle when the wheels hits something and then returns to its original position. This motion is known as “dampening”.

No shock compensation can also desirable, especially during long climbs, and some shocks come with a lock-out feature. This enables the shock aborber to be frozen into place and give no motion compensation.

The 3 different types of shocks.

- The Air shock uses compressed air as the spring. It’s easily adjusted by adding or releasing air and also comes with the lock-out feature.
- Spring shocks utilize exactly what their name implies: a metal spring. In the middle of the spring there is free-flowing fluid which aids dampening. These are also adjustable but don’t come with the lock-out ability.
- Elastomer shocks use compressed rubber or rubber-type material which compresses and rebounds. The tension can also be adjusted.

Shock Maintenance

Much like a car, and depending on how heavily used your bicycle is, your shock absorbers will need to be serviced. This ensures they continue performing at their peak. You should from time to time check them thoroughly for any signs of leaking oil and test the damper performance. Clean the boot and wipe off the outside and apply a small amount of bearing grease if needed and lube the wiper. This will lessen the need for costly repairs.

We’ve definitely come a long way from the boneshaker. Riders can choose the perfect bike suspension to fit their comfort and performance needs. Bet you never thought there was so much that went into bicycle shock absorbers. The builders of that first bike must be rolling in their graves.

Posted in: Accessories, Mountain bikes ⋅ Tagged: , , ,

Comfortable Bicycles

September 8, 2014 1:13 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

As we all know that there are a lot of things that can help us to travel long distance such as Bike, Cars or by using public transport such as Bus, Train, Etc.bus when we have to cover a small distance then we can choose either bike or bicycle.bicycle is one of the best way to cover small distances. Nowadays there are many kind of cycles in the market as per our age and as per our requirement.

If someone has to go to a long distance there is a special bicycle, there is also a different bicycle used in bicycle races.bicycles can have a starting cost from 2000 to 20000, in which there are bicycles of all the types such as small cycles, racing cycles, Atlas cycles, gear cycles and also the mountain cycles.every bicycle is different from each other such as the small cycles are used by kids of small ages and size and the main quality that it can have is that it can have 3 and 4 tyre that will support the rider and helps him\her to makes the balance and also give confidence to the rider. Racing bicycles are one of the most adventurous cycle to be used by the racers.

The driving of these bicycles are very easy and smooth and can help the driver to drive it fast and can eventually win the race but the main disadvantage it can have is that it is not as comfortable as the others can have. The most frequently used cycles used in India and also in some part of Asia is the Atlas bicycles- It is best known for his comfort it gives to the rider, it is also one of the most smooth running cycles and also is the most economic bicycle used in the last five to six decades.It does not cost too much during the purchase and also after the purchase.

These atlas cycles are also of mainly two types that is one is the typical atlas cycle and other is modern Atlas cycle. The other cycle is the gear cycle such as the DTH, these are the bicycles used by the teenagers, the main quality of these cycles is that it has gears that help the rider to ride it easily and quickly the racing cycles also have gears that runs them fast. Gear cycles is one of the most famous and eventful discovery. There is also a modification done in them that is they also add the front suspension on the bicycles which help them to run in the bad routes.

The most famous cycles are the mountainous cycles because the are cute and awesome looking and also does not cost too much as compared to the other cycles such as racing, gear cycles and others they are also most widely used cycles in the world now a days and one of the most comfortable cycles.the cycles are also different for both boys and girls, Lady Bird is one of the most leading bicycles company that creates the cycles for the girls…..

Posted in: Bike Seats, Comfort ⋅ Tagged: , , ,

Best Bicycle Saddles

September 1, 2014 1:10 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

Seen as a tool for sporting, leisure, transportation and many other purposes cycling is for sure part and parcel of almost all societies In fact, it is said that riding a bicycle is one of the best exercises that one can possibly do. There is no doubt that cycling or biking is a worldwide activity used for revenue creation and leisure in equal measures. In some countries, there are more bicycles than the number of people, just so that the population can use them to stay fit. In others, there are more bicycles than the number of motor vehicles just so that the population can use them as hired transportation means. Some towns have streets that are constructed to have lanes specifically for cyclists. Such countries have enjoyed the simple benefits offered by this method of transportation such as easy parking, reducing traffic congestion and quick access to locations through back street roads.

It may seem very easy owning a bicycle and learning how to ride it compared to motor vehicles but the most important thing is ones comfort when riding. The most important item on the bike for every cyclist is the saddle which is popularly known as the seat. Once the cyclists discomfort is caused by the saddle, the riding experience will be very awful. Having uncomfortable saddles has led many potential cyclists quit riding. Some mostly women have had to go through different genital surgeries. Riders have even ended their cycling careers and some have changed to a less painful sport. This makes you see how important it is for one to have the best saddles on their bike.

The best bicycle saddles are hard to choose especially for the new riders who will not easily know the comparison. Once you are new in cycling, it is advised for one to purchase a new saddle that will be suitable for you. When shopping for a saddle there are several possibilities that one should consider. The bicycle seat should not be too high as your weight won’t be balanced and this could cause irritation to your sensitive parts. One should find an adjustable bike saddle that will enable you tilt forward and backward when loosened as this will relieve pressure.

Since your saddle is for sporting, a long, narrow and softer saddle also known as the performance saddle is preferred for you. Saddles are also made of different qualities of cushions which are gel, foam and the saddle pad. The foam cushioning is the best for bike saddles as it provides more support and it is best when firm. An additional cushioning of the saddle pad will provide more comfort combined with a pair of padded shorts or underwear.

Choose a bicycle saddle that will protect your perineum area. Saddles with a slit at the center will reduce the pressure thus providing comfort and airflow in long rides. When shopping for the best bicycle saddles, you need to test them before purchasing. Choose the best rails for durability, flexibility and strength. The titanium rails are the best. Cyclists require seats suitable for their forward position as it’s also the best position for fast peddling. This is why the narrow saddle is perfect for most riders in sports.Try lots of seats for you to get the best and also always dress appropriate for cycling to avoid getting saddle sores.

Posted in: Bike Seats, Saddles ⋅ Tagged: , , ,

Dutch Bicycles

August 25, 2014 1:06 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

Cycling in has grown more interesting in the Dutch Culture. Today, the world is fast getting to notice this unique culture in the Dutch bicycle brands. A good way to define a classic Dutch bike is by frame type. One most popular frame in the Dutch city of Amsterdam is “Omafiets”, and is widely viewed as Dutch cruiser bike. Traditionally, a Dutch bike is usually a day and night, shine or rain bike that takes one to any destination in the most convenient and comfortable manner all round the city and the suburbs where you may be residing. Moreover, the Dutch bicycles allow you to enjoy the ride while you are dressed in your normal clothing fashion or in the best choice of your shoes. Again, Dutch bikes are designed to provide carriage for a number of persons or items that the rider would love to carry. Interestingly, Dutch bicycles can last for decades with an all time low maintenance cost.

The most admirable features in Dutch bicycle include an upright comfortable riding position. This is unique as the Dutch bicycles are not designed for racing but for normal day’s routine for the cyclist. this is more so to models such as Ladies Vintage Bikes. This further allows the bicycle to carry more persons and items as well as allow the rider to look around. Additionally, the bikes have got a totally enclosed drive chain. Although traditionally, most bicycles have a metallic casing, the modern Dutch bikes have a plastic casing to make the lighter as well as reduce noise produced by the metal casing. Again, a plastic casing is not prone to corrosion or denting. A casing prevents dirt and water from getting to contact with the chain, while protecting the cyclists’ clothes from grease. With a casing it is always possible that clothing will not be caught up in the moving bicycle parts. The casing will last for long and requires little maintenance.

Dutch bicycles are ever improving in their designs. One attractive model is the ladies vintage bike. The bike is modeled to help carry small items for the cyclists. This bicycle has a relaxing and a sit up riding style for women, a characteristic that enables women to have an easy ride on a typical Dutch bicycle. Further, the bicycles it is fitted with three speed gears that help improve on speed of the bike and climb up the hill with all the ease. A carriage fixed at the front enables women cyclists to place items or their hand bags and ride in full comfort. Dutch vintage bikes are of different sizes featuring all potential riders from young girls to elderly women. They are of high quality and are not overly expensive. That is, they are well affordable to all. The bicycles are further designed with internal hubs brakes thus reducing dust particles from getting into the braking system thus leading to failure. The lighting system is also well effective and performs to the best. To reduce the power cost, the system is fitted with a dynamo that charges as the bicycle cycles.

Check out these vintage bicycles.

Posted in: Dutch Bicycles, Vintage ⋅ Tagged: , , , ,

Bicycle Heart Rate Monitors

August 18, 2014 9:58 pm ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

Many people like to cycle for a good workout, some more serious than others. The heart rate monitor can help in many ways, it can help while training, measuring your personal BPM (beats per a minute). This form of training takes discipline but is worth it, you can greatly increase your endurance. Who wouldn’t want that? The key to using this form of training is to start off slow and to keep your heart rate in the right Zone. This may be torturous and boring when first getting started, but over time you will begin to see how much progress your body is making. Have you ever wondered who people zip past you on their bicycles and aren’t completely winded? Well, this is your answer, in order to go faster and have better endurance you need to be able to keep your heart rate steady and have control over it. This is the way that most professional cyclist train, it works on multiple skills at once. While building your capability to keep a normal BPM you are also building the muscle and powerful legs that every cyclist needs.

Each beat of your heart is blood being pumped around your body. The lower your heart rate the healthier and stronger your heart is, when the heart gets stronger it can pump more blood at once which means less pumping has to be done. This relates back to training because you are always trying to keep your heart rate as low as possible while still cycling as fast as possible. I know this all may sounds very confusing, so let me break it down for you. There is one main factor here, endurance, and we train in order to build this. The way endurance works while cycling is how tired you are after going a long distance in a short time, but in order to get there you have to build your hearts strength, and you do this through BPM training.

After all of this talk about going through this training, we still have to talk about where to get one of these, and which one to buy. Since heart rate monitors aren’t cheap you want to make sure that you are buying a good one that give you a completely accurate reading. The very high end monitors, can be three to four hundred dollars, for example the Garmin Edge 500 GPS Bundle with Heart Rate/Cadence is an amazing tool to have but is a bit pricy. Since we all know times can be rough and we don’t want people missing out on an opportunity to train like this there are ones that can go for cheaper prices on amazon. One very convenient thing that you can do is if you have an iPhone many devices come with an app that can track your history and will save all of your data about your previous rides. Not many people have the dedication to go through the vigorous process of BPM training, do you have what it takes?

Posted in: Accessories, Bicycle Computers, Bicycle Heart Rate Monitors

Padded Bicycle Shorts

August 11, 2014 9:52 pm ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

Padded bicycle shorts are specifically designed to ensure cyclists are comfortable while cycling. bearing the fact that there are different users the fashion designers put into consideration the comfort ability of the cyclists. the cyclists will want ideal shorts that offer greater comfortability and performance during a riding session. As a rider you need examine carefully your body morphology and look for shorts that merge your needs. Padded shorts are made with a high degree of consideration of the individual cyclists to suit their needs and reduce any harm while riding.

Classic shorts provide for fluid movement with the body while in cycling session. The two smooth panel construction and a seamless pad that reduces opportunity for abrasion and saddle sores making riding a wonderful experience. the shorts generally should be made from quality fabric. Since there are many cyclists with different preferences so is the case with padding shorts. Padding bicycle shorts utilize muscle compression and thus increasing comfortabilty on longer rides eventually rewarding the cyclist’s efforts.

The padding shorts are made of fabric so as they get a longer life as well as comfortability. The cross cutting technique usually maximizes the stretch performance of spandex fabric while preventing bacteria from infringing and so it stays dry for longer hours.

Padding is mainly done for the sit bones by the anti chafe design between the legs and on the saddle area. fabric that can abrade without damage is highly recommended. This also makes the shorts elastic thus remaining in place. it provides for a snug fit and thus remaining intact and does not flip in the air.

Padding shorts ranges from thick to thin and they protect individual cyclists. thick padding mainly act a shock absorbers because they contain thick foams or gel inserts. chamois padding reduces abrasion and lessens pain in the butt area. there are pads for male and female , but again there those which can serve for both-unisex shorts. Women chamois have more of a pillow whereas men’s are more of compression through the center. men’s bike shorts typically have a groove or cut out in the center of the pad for the men morpholgy to sink into the take pressure off the ischia and perinea area.

The use of ant chafe creams hand lubricants is important in that when combined with snug bike shorts in a great deal enhances pleasantness while one rides. today most chamois pads are made from high performance synthetic fibers like coolmax brand polyester or polyurethane fibers.

Due to their stretchy nature padding shorts can fit anybody, that is, very small shorts can fit big people and the the large ones fit small people. but the shorts should not be too large as this can lead to the chamois pad moving around and thus leads to rubbing which can cause abrasion in the long run.

The shorts contain leg grippers which help the shorts to remain intact. they dry quickly and the pad has peap performance. they are designed in such a manner that they take into consideration how the body sits on the saddle plus the pressure areas that come int contact with the saddle. thus padding shorts are loaded with features that suit the uniqueness of individual riders.

Posted in: Comfort, cycle clothing, Cycle Safety ⋅ Tagged: , , ,

Antique Bicycles

August 4, 2014 9:51 pm ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

Almost all of us have owned and cherished a bicycle at least once in our lives or longed to. And we grow attached to them. It’s this fondness that has ensured a strongly-rooted hobby in restoring, selling and collecting antique bicycles that spans generations. This love bloomed in many of us as children. Then, it wasn’t just a bicycle. It was a gallant steed, a motorcycle fit to make even James Bond envious, or a rocket ship exploring the boundlessness of space. When we grew up and entered our adults years, the bicycle became something more practical and less magical. It became an inexpensive and simple mode of transportation, a way to keep fit or something to race competitively. But the love of the machine never seems to fade.

A Brief History

The bicycle has been around a long time. The earliest sketch of a bicycle-type vehicle surfaced in 1493 envisioned by Gian Giacomo Caprotti who studied under none other than Leonardo da Vinci. Unfortunately, the authenticity has never been verified. The first practical working bicycle was produced by a Baron in Germany, Baron Karl von Drais in 1817. He patented his design and in 1818 it became the very first cycle to be commercially-produced successfully. It was known then not as the bicycle but as the velocipede and tritely nicknamed “the dandy horse”. So I guess we weren’t the only ones to imagine our bikes as horses. These strange two-wheeled vehicles were originally manufactures in Germany and France but the British were quick to jump on the bandwagon, or bicycle as it were, in 1818 and produce their own improved mode. After that production and use spread over much of Europe and America. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Common Types of Antique Bikes

Velocipedes: Although these cycles can have any number of wheels, the most common is the bicycle. The term was first used in 1818 by Nicephore Niepce in France.

Boneshaker: This term was first used in 1869 for what is considered the first true-type of bicycle. It’s name was born of it’s rough unyielding ride.


The penny-farthing is probably what you first imagine when you think of an antique bicycle. This is the model with the enormous front wheel and a much smaller rear one. These began to appear around 1870. The larger the wheel, the faster the speed. Safety bicycles: This style of cycle gained popularity toward the end of the 1880′s and was an alternative to the penny farthing bicycle, It’s considered the forerunner of the modern bicycle.

Famous Collections

  • The Bicycle Museum of America is located in New Bremen, Ohio and boasts one of the largest private collections antique bicycles in the world.
  • The National Cycle Collection, Llandrindod Wells, Mid Wales, in the UK displays a collection of over 200 bikes, some dating back as far as 1819 and covers 6,000 square feet.
  • In Bad Bruckenau Germany, Ivan Sojc’s Velicious Bicycle Museum houses almost 230 bicycles most still in their original condition covering everything from the first velocipedes to modern bikes.
  • There are many more museums and collections open to the public, so be sure to check your local listing. It may spark your own love affair with antique bicycles.
Posted in: Antique, Vintage ⋅ Tagged: , , , ,

Used Bicycle Parts

July 28, 2014 2:52 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

If you love adventure and the outdoors, then you know that the thrill of riding your bicycle through beautiful trails is incomparable. Every seasoned cyclist will tell you that a good bicycle is a worthy companion when it comes to exploring the universe, whether on your own or in the company of friends. As with most things, bicycles get worn out and require maintenance and repair. If you are thinking of getting replacement parts for your bike, you may be torn between buying new or used bicycle parts. Before you rush to get yourself some used bicycle parts, you might want to read on about the benefits of buying new bicycle parts instead.

So, why should any cyclist worth the name opt for new bicycle parts?

1. A lot of people make the mistake of assuming that ‘used’ always means ‘cheap’.You may be thinking of all the money you stand to save by buying bicycle parts from your neighbor who stopped cycling a while back. The problem with used bicycle parts is that in most cases, they are already worn out. They have been used by someone else before and may have problems which are not too obvious. These problems may show up later on after you have already bought them and this will cause you to incur more expenses. It is therefore advisable to buy brand new bicycle parts as these have not undergone any wear and tear.

2. With new bicycle parts, you can always look forward to upgrades. The thing about used bicycle parts is that they were bought earlier, used for a while and then put back on the market. They are the earlier versions of whatever you are looking for. When you choose to buy new bicycle parts, you can always go for the newest version in the market. This way, you can enjoy parts that are new and improved and best suited to make your bike riding experience even more pleasant.

4. In the event that you decide to sell the bicycle parts, you stand a better chance of finding a customer if you had originally bought new parts. This is because by the time you decide to sell them, they will not be worn out beyond appeal. However with used bike parts, it is very likely that you will be the last owner and you may never make any money from them should you consider selling them.

5. New bike parts come with warranty. This gives you the peace of mind that should anything go wrong with the parts, you can always call on the supplier to refund you or replace the faulty parts. This is not usually the case with used bike parts, where you take a huge risk especially if you are buying in bulk or from unlicensed suppliers.

If you are hoping to enjoy your cycling experience to the max, you need a bicycle that can handle all terrain, support you comfortably and meet all your cycling needs. For this, the bicycle needs to be in top shape. You can never go wrong with new bike parts.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE LOWEST PRICED BICYCLE PARTS IN NZ

 

Posted in: bike parts, Components ⋅ Tagged: , , , , , ,

Cycling in Hamilton, New Zealand

March 20, 2014 11:56 pm ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

With it’s mild temperatures throughout the year, you’ll never overheat cycling through the wonderful architecture of Hamliton, New Zealand. With it’s extensive cycleways, trailing through the bustling city center to the suburbs, cycling in Hamilton has never been easier. Hamilton has a modern cafe culture, which if you’re cycling in Hamilton during the lunch hour, you’ll be drawn to the smells and tastes offered by eateries in the cosmopolitan area of Casabella Lane.

If you’re looking for a break from the busy city centre then head out from the suburbs and explore the trails along the Waikato River. With it’s lush shrubbery and flowing breeze as you cycle you’ll easily burn off those lunch time calories. If you need time to relax before your next cycle trek then it’s worth stopping-off at the tranquil Hamilton Gardens. As Waikato’s most popular attraction you’ll be stunned by the Paradise Garden Collection.

It is always good to pair your visit to the Hamilton Gardens with a stop at Taitua Arboretum just outside of Hamilton city centre. With several of the most beautiful lakes in the world it makes an excellent place to stop for a picnic to replenish your cycling in Hamilton. With much wildlife to see such as the native peacocks, roosters and other birds you’ll find this an interesting stop along your cycling trip. With free entry this is certainly one location not to miss.

To crown your day it’s worth saving your cycling energy for the Bridal Veil Falls between Hamilton and Raglan. With well maintained trails you’ll be stunned as you approach the apocalyptic sight of the fifty-five meter waterfall, though we recommend the trail only for those who prefer a mountain bike. This is one location that can be tackled by most fit cyclists.

For your trip ensure you have adequate protection such as an approved helmet; especially when cycling in Hamilton city centre. A puncture repair kit, complete with tyre levers, is also worth packing on your cycling travels, especially those who are venturing the off-road trails such as the waterfalls where a thorn in your tyre can bring a halt to your day. Ensure your cycle is fitted with water bottle holders and carry at least two bottles per person. Finally, for those who may be unlucky enough to suffer a punctured tyre, carry a mini tyre pump. Modern pumps are manufactured from light weight aluminum and take up little space when clipped to your road or mountain bike. Now you’re prepared you’ll be able to enjoy an amazing scenic and thrilling experience of cycling in Hamilton.

If you’re ever in Hamilton, stop in at Evolution Cycles and check out their massive selection of bikes – see their website here

Posted in: Cycling

Getting started with BMX Bikes – What you need to know before beginning

February 20, 2014 8:20 pm ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

The adrenaline rush of BMX or bicycle motocross began in the 1970s when teenagers began racing their squishy bikes on dirt track around southern California, trying to emulate their motocross stars and idols such as Lars Larrson, Preston Petty and Mike Goodwin.

The biggest inspiration came in 1972 with the screening of the cult documentary “On Any Sunday”, which showed kids riding their sting ray bikes of road, in its opening scene. Soon after companies started developing designs and manufacturing bikes specifically for off-roading and use on dirt tracks. With economic success, the sport of BMX was born.

Fast forward 30 or so years. Gone are the days of frisbees tied with a string, acting as knee protectors. In a world of high-end BMX gear, bikes that cost upward of $2000, hundreds of BMX events all over the globe and thousands of customizable bike parts, shoes, clothing, accessories, safety gear – it has become hard to see the forest from all the trees.

What started so simple has become a major subset of the $7.3 billion bicycling industry, so let me make it simple for you and tell you about the differences and what you might or might not need, helping you choose the right bike and BMX gear.

Frame

Try and go with Chrome Moly instead of aluminum. Both are common steels in racing. BMX “dudes” usually go with Chrome Moly because it’s stronger and not as stiff a ride. Aluminum is half the weight of steel but only 1/3 the strength. Going to your local shop you might discover that frames from both aluminum and Chrome Moly (or cromoly, cromo, CrMo) weigh the same. This indicates that the aluminum tubing has a thicker outer layer to seemingly match the strength of Chrome Moly, but don’t get flunked – it’s still not as strong as Chrome Moly.

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Aluminum has a limited life and eventually will corrode and give up on you. Chrome Moly, on the other hand, will never die on you if you don’t let it rust in your basement while you make yourself the third PB&J sandwich.

Brakes

Whether you ride with brakes or not is 100% up to you and your style. It’s a question of opinion. Keep in mind that brakes will make your bike marginally heavier which might influence your tricking. It is widely considerate obsolete BMX gear

Pedals

Go with plastic. It’s cheap and it doesn’t hurt as much as steel when you eventually ram it into your body. Getting a big one jammed into your shin, trying to impress your friends and the cute girl, 15 minutes after arriving to your skate park is NOT what you want to happen to you, trust me. It hurts bad.

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Posted in: BMX ⋅ Tagged: , , , , , , ,