When the First Bike Multi-Tool Was ‘Cool’
The Cool Tool claimed twenty seven separate tools all attached to an adjustable wrench which was the backbone for them. The wrench’s “jaws” were tapered in order to be used as a pedal wrench and a cone wrench.
Bushido 1987: Two-Wheeled Nostalgia
Bushido, a Japanese term associated with codes of honor for the samurai way of life, was the Holy Grail for mountain bikers in the late 1980's. Most individuals never saw a Bushido unless they either attended Interbike in 1986 or 1987, or saw a picture…
The Hite Rite Changed How We Ride Mountain Bikes
This seemingly ubiquitous product is viewed as an essential tool in many MTB disciplines. It’s doubtful the Hite Rite will rise from its ashes, but it was the progenitor of a line of products that has contributed to the development of the modern MTB.
The Trail Blazing Pedego Ridge Rider
The Ridge Rider is a mountain bike powered by an impressive 500 watt Dapu brushless geared rear hub motor. The bike has five levels of pedal assist (PAS) with a throttle override for full power on demand at each level plus a throttle-only mode. The motor was more than equal to any ascent that we attempted and the drivetrain and brakes performed with the excellence we expected of them.
Stromer e-Commuter ST1 X: Half the Price and Just As Good
The ST1 X has the same frame as the ST2 S and both models move stealthily. We tested the ST1 X on both short rides and long touring expeditions. The three levels of PAS, low, medium and “Captain Kirk, can we slow down a little” were very effective in moderating speed, and we were able to exceed 30 mph on this bike almost as easily as on the ST2 S.
New Products at the 2017 Sea Otter Classic
The Sea Otter Classic, the most enduring harbinger of spring in southern California for the past 25 or so years, was a compendium of more than 400 exhibitors vying for the favors of an audience which has been somewhat blasé about their offerings recently, much…
Consistently Good: Riding the e-Joe Koda
The 2017 Koda is an improved version of their 2015 model that was one of five finalists for e-bike of the year at Interbike. The Koda is listed as a “sports commuter” and satisfies the designation very well.
Specialized’s Turbo Levo Electric Bike Fleet
These Turbo Levo models are capable of furthering the historical significance other Specialized bikes have received beginning with the Stumpjumper many years ago.
The e-Chariot
My friend Ron’s granddaughter is a precocious nine years old with a penchant for mechanical things. She conceived the e-Chariot to be a vehicle that would allow her family, including her 12-year-old physically challenged sister Hailey, to bicycle together.
Consuming Miles On The Marvelous Stromer ST2 S
The aluminum frame and full carbon fiber fork of the ST2 S is equipped with an industry-leading 48 Volt, 983-Watt hour battery that has a range exceeding 180 kilometers (100+ miles) if used judiciously.
A Couple Of e-Bike Cycletourists
Gary and Rachel Corbett completed the European leg of their world record e-cycling journey by traveling 27,500 kilometers (about 16,700 miles) during a 16-month tour.
For Pure Enjoyment, A Look At The E-LUX Newport Cruiser
H.L. Mencken said that one characteristic of Americans is we’re afraid that someone somewhere is having fun. If that’s the case, we need to close our collective eyes when someone rides by on an E-LUX cruiser, because they’re definitely having a good time.
10 Questions for Interbike
Interbike, the yearly compendium of phantasmagoric cycling delicacies, is just around the corner as this is written, and the SCB crew has the same rapt anticipation as the week before Christmas many years ago.
DIY E-Commuters: Get Started on Building Up Your Own ‘Franken’ ebike
Many excellent bike shops in Southern California already sell e-commuters, with more retailers adding them their inventory every month. So then why would anyone want to assemble a do-it-yourself (DIY) e-bike when there are scores of superb OEM models available? The reasons, many and varied, include the cost savings, the assurance that the conversion of a bike that already fits you perfectly will continue to do so as an e-bike, a new hobby, the feeling of accomplishment and an intimate knowledge of the functional parameters of your bike.
Urban Exploring: Beyond Basics – ABUS GRANIT Plus 640
The ABUS Granit PLUS 640 is one of two ABUS locks that I use on a regular basis. As a D-shaped U-lock, it is a classic option for reliable and proven protection. It is light enough and small enough to carry in a bag, but stout enough to protect your bike from theft. The shackle, which is double bolted into the lock body and made of 12mm hardened steel, is also coated in rubber so that it will not damage the finish on your bicycle. The lock itself weighs less than 900 grams, which is quite light considering the amount of protection it provides.
ELEVENPINE Uprising: The Everywear Men’s Shorts
Enter Jeff Curran, owner of ELEVENPINE, who offers relief from the ignominy of this lycra adversity with his new, patented “Uprising” shorts. This model is form-fit, but not Spandex-tight, and can also be worn for more leisurely activities. Constructed of a light, comfortable fabric, the shorts have an elastic waistband with drawstring, and two front pockets with zippers.
The 28mph Commuter: Trek XM700+ e-Bike
A 28mph Class 3 e-bike like the Trek XM700+ can be fully utilized on Class 2 and 3 bike routes in California, but can also be used on Class 1 trails with the electric system disengaged. You’ll have a tough time depleting a full battery, but the bike makes an excellent hybrid even without the pedal assist.
Pedego Stretch Cargo Bike – Updated and Revisited
The Pedego Stretch cargo bike has been retained by BICYCLIST for the last four months. We plan to share our experiences with the bike in the future issues as the “Stretch” has been very popular with the BICYCLIST staff. This cargo bike seems to be…
Social Media