Velopaint

London Olympics to charge (breastfeeding) mothers double!

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-06:00

Molly at 15 months watching Wales v US rugby.

Yep, LOCOG (London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games), state that everyone entering ticketed Olympic venues requires a ticket. This means that nursing mother's who take their children require a ticket for the child. Some events have a 'pay your age' category for those under 16 years old. The tricky bit is that the ticket allocation/lottery started over 9 months before the start of the games, meaning some women, who were not pregnant when applying, will have given birth by then and will need an additional ticket for the newborn - which may not be easy to come by, especially if the event you are seeing does not have children's tickets. It certainly seems that LOCOG could have introduced the airline 'lapseat' concept, free for a child under 2 who sits on your lap, whether breastfeeding or not. I guess they have security and health and safety concerns.

And Ok the 'breastfeeding' part of the title is misleading, I am just quoting form my sources you know.

Those with very young children should note that their infant who will be carried asleep most of the time will enable them to go to the Olympics. My four year old, who though fascinated by events and generally patient as a saint, would not be happy standing at the side of the Road Race route for hours. Make the most of it. Though if LOCOG do introduce free seats for breastfed children it is worth noting that Molly is still breastfed.

Breastfeeding rules and requires more support, especially here in the US.

Contador shows support for his idol Kenny

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

photo by Bettini on Cyclingnews.

Cycling's National Champions jerseys.

2012-01-23T21:23:00.002-06:00

I finally sat down to write a post I started thinking about this time last year.

The design of National Champions jerseys.

I have my images and quote from the UCI rulebook and figure I'll start typing and see if I can formulate my thoughts as I go. Just one more Google search then I'll start.....damn. One search too many. "Inrng: The Inner Ring" posted a great article on this very subject on the 18th and talks pretty much about the same stuff.

I was just going to note how some National Champions basically wear the flag and sometimes it works, Sweden and Belgium for example, and sometimes it doesn't, the USA and Brazil. Of course that's all a matter of aesthetic and maybe patriotic taste.

So here are a few photos, maybe some comments and the UCI rules.

Other than that please do go visit the Inner Ring to read my mind.

Australia

Brazil

Great Britain

France

Belgium

The five above show the 'traditional' designs used by the respective nations for years. Well the Brazilian jersey seems to have looked like that for ages even though it looks pretty modern. The British, French and Belgian, amongst others, have used their flags simply since their introduction and haven't changed much since the days of Poulidor.

Ireland

Italy

Japan

Luxembourg

Norway

Slovakia

Spain

Switzerland

USA

This year's more modern take is to reduce the flag to a small patch on the front of the corporate jersey, as if it's another sponsor. And in some cases blend it in a bit too well, Luxembourg and Japan anyone?

Even though there are guidelines laid down by the UCI for the positioning and sizes of the sponsors graphics the governing bodies of each nation are supposedly responsible for the 'flag' use. When you look at the similarities in the designs though, for example USA and Slovenia, it looks as if there is one person in a small dark room with a cookie cutter working across borders and brands.

LIFECYCLE: 365 days in the life of a bike in NYC

2012-01-22T15:57:00.001-06:00

This is a little experiment by Red Peak on behalf of Hudson Urban Bicycles in NYC. They locked a fully equipped bike to a bike rack and left it there for a year, photographing it once a day. Strangely it took over 6 months before anything started going but the inevitable happened. Though to be honest anyone frequenting the rack would come to the conclusion it had been dumped or forgotten about. Not that it gives you the right to steal it as opposed to informing the city....

London Olympic Park, Anish Kapoor and a Unicycle.

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

My family and I just spent 3 weeks over in the UK.

Here are a few bike related photos for no apparent reason.

First off when driving into north London, which anyone who spent ten years living south of the river would declare as the great unknown, we found ourselves amongst the Olympic Park. I was actually pretty surprised at how urban it is. I mean there are major roads driving through it, or should I say sunk below it. Everyone we spoke to in London said they are planning on staying away from the Olympics, I think it is a fear of transport nightmares and crowds. I have to saymy wife and I were planning to spend some time there to maybe watch the Road Race or TT, I think we have changed our mind. Partly due to those concerns but this trip also reminded us how different life is with a 4 year old and even though she is an absolute star it would not be right for us to expect her to sit at the side of a road in a crowd for a couple of hours+ in order to see some bikes.

I passed the camera back to Sarah and this is the result. 'mmmmmm

Both of these are the famous 'Pringle', the Velodrome.

You know why it's getting so much attention beside being beautiful?

It's probably the only beautiful building there, so far.

The stadium is on the right - it looks pretty nasty right now, fingers crossed for the big event.

And that funny truss tower thing towards the center? That's a sculpture by Anish Kapoor, not one of his best by the look of it, taller than the Statue of Liberty it will provide views across the park for visitors who make it to the top. More here: The ArcelorMittal Orbit and a fantastic piece about the project here on Anish Kapoor's site: Anish Kapoor

On Boxing Day, that's the 26th December, we were at the playground again and saw this wonderful sight. Local teen on brand new Christmas unicycle. Holding onto Dad's shoulder he made his way slowly around the park, dropping off the unicycle every few feet.

Back at the same park one week later and he was lapping by himself. Way to go! I was so proud! (of this complete stranger).

'Tomorrow, We Ride....' by Jean Bobet

2012-01-16T11:22:00.000-06:00

What a great read. I picked it up over in the UK and devoured it in a day or so. Jean writes about being the younger brother of Louison Bobet ( three time Tour De France winner and 1954 World Champion), becoming a pro-cyclist in his own right, their entwined careers and the sport itself in mid century France. Jean's writing (and the translation) flows smoothly and somewhat romantically. It's striking how much Jean knew his role and his capabilities within the peloton, how much he respected his brother and loves the sport.

To be more precise, on Sunday mornings we rode. The level of motivation varied from one week to the next. If I reminded Louison, 'We're riding tomorrow,' I was stating the obvious: that was the routine. If Louison called, 'Are we riding tomorrow?' it would take a little persuasion to overcome his hesitation. If, on the other hand, he addressed me with 'Tomorrow, we ride,' I knew that it would be like old times, in training......With the wind at our backs, the intoxication was such that we almost took ourselves for the Bobet brothers. When the wind turned, we were somebody else entirely.

Louison Bobet: Moments of his career.
Uploaded by PaquirrinTopModel

Ludwig Von 88: Louison Bobet for ever

Uploaded by Alvinox73

Yeah French punk about cycling greats!

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A 'Cycling' 50p coin for the 2012 Olympics

2012-01-12T07:28:00.000-06:00

I just returned from a few weeks Blighty where I ate too many biscuits (cookies).

Another gem of an article dug up from a newspaper or maybe too many hours web surfing is this.
A collection of twenty nine 50p coins each one featuring a design celebrating the 29 sports at the games. Can you believe there are only 29 actual sports? The designs used on each coin were chosen from contests open to the public.

The cycling coin was designed by 16 year old Theo Crutchley-Mack and bloody nice it is too.
He is interviewed here on the Royal Mint website: Theo Interview.

Here is the 'gymnastics' coin which also really stands out from the others.

More info and pictures of all the coins and more over at the Royal Mint.

2012 and British cycling

2012-01-04T14:30:00.000-06:00

I have said before that 'The Sun' is not exactly a quality newspaper but it's great to see stuff like this anywhere. It's 2012 and Olympic year in the UK, it's also the Queen's sixtieth year as queen so the UK will be emblazoned in the Union Jack like never before. Looks like cycling is being heralded as the forerunner for sporting success this year. Finger's crossed.

An aside: as a Welshman it's always a bit of a bugbear that the Union Jack being a union of English, Irish and Scottish flags contains nothing relating to that of the Welsh - bast#rds.

'American Heritage: The great Bicycle Delirium'

2012-01-01T05:05:00.000-06:00

This book almost jumped off the shelf at me a few months ago. One of those rare finds in a thrift store. One of the reasons we go to them, other than the hundreds of used childrens books we buy.

Some great illustrations and the 'Barnum and Bailey' advert is just mind blowing, well worth more investigation.

'Richy' - a portrait for my Dad

2011-12-26T12:24:00.003-06:00

This was an experiment. I knew I had 3 hours to do a portrait of my brother to give to my Dad for Christmas. So I just got on with painting.

Pretty pleased with it. There was a point after 2 hours where it proaly looked more vibrant, colourful and looser but I figured it needed some finesse-ing to finish it off. I guess I over finessed!

Still, lesson learned, though the lesson of when to stop is the hardest thing to master. Lookiing forward to 'playing' in a similar manner with some cycling subjects.

"Merry Christmas All"

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

At age 3 and 2/3 Molly has fully embraced the ridiculously cool Christmas Mavic Cosmos. I've already embraced the yuletime traditions of my homeland - Mince Pies rule! It's Christmas Eve have a wonderful couple of days.

Cavendish and cycling win.

2011-12-23T05:43:00.001-06:00

Last night Cavendish won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award.

He received almost half of the 342,000 total votes.

"This award is a landmark for cycling," he said at the annual BBC awards ceremony, now held in Salford. "For cycling to be recognised in a non-Olympic year is unheard of.

More here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/sports_personality/16311328.stm

Geraint Thomas was rewarded for his work this year by the British Olympic Committee who named him Athlete of the Year for cycling: http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/23122011/58/thomas-gets-boa-gong.html

Obree 'IS' going for the World Record....

2011-12-18T10:10:00.001-06:00

....just not that one.

According to the BBC website he has been working on "a rocket-like transporter that contains a flat bike and a protective membrane..." oh and he's aiming for a 100mph Human Powered Vehicle land speed record.

There are a couple of wonderful quotes concerning skin, that of the vehicle and also his own, you can probably see where that is leading.

I think Obree is a star of the cycling world.

Unconventional and tortured, the underdog and that's exactly how us Brits like our heroes. I really just want to see what he comes up with and him having a damn good go at it.

The only thing that is a little disconcerting is that "I am setting out to attack the world land speed record, which is on a bicycle, but there's no rules,".

Really? No rules!

Anyway I think the cycling world will be a better place with Graeme participating and hopefully leading the way.

The new bike is named - 'Pie in the Sky'.

'mmmm pie......

Full story over at the BBC.

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Aerodynamics Hydrodynamics.

2011-12-17T07:30:00.000-06:00

When I saw these boats on Core 77 I immediately thought of some of the frame profiles in today's bike frames.

Boats from Core 77

This photo from Scott.

Makes you wonder if teams would benefit from some dazzle paint on the frames?

'Abdoujaparov' is still going.

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

The Tashkent Terror lives on in another guise as do 'Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine'.

Les Carter was the guitarist of USM and since 1998 he has been the lead in a band which named itself after the crazy Russian sprinter. I stumbled across the band whilst hunting for tracks to fill a cd of bike themed tunes back in 2000. And I love it. It's just fast, fun and reckless like the man himself, littered with swearing and references to pop culture, sci-fi, drinking and the love of bikes.

Their website used to include a small .wav of 'How to pronounce Abdoujaparov' but alas it's gone.

I might just treat myself to a cd and t-shirt bundle when I am in the UK next.

More goodness after the link including the Abdoujaparov theme:

Here are the lyrics to their 'Abdoujaparov' theme song:

Abdoujaparov (theme Song) Lyrics

He's a dangerous man from Uzbeckistan 

He is the Tashkent Terror and I can't say fairer

And he don't give a fuck coz he took too many drugs(allegedly)

And I miss him very much, so we try to keep in touch

(Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov,
Ab-dou-jap-a-rov)

(Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov,
Ab-dou-jap-a-rov)

So here's my band with a great new sound

And we carry his name for a brand new fame

We sing it fom our knees and we sing it from the trees

And you know you won't renounce it, coz you probably can't pronounce it


(Ab-dou-jap-a-rov,
Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov)

(Ab-dou-jap-a-rov,
Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov, Ab-dou-jap-a-rov)

Cycling school kids end adult war......

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

....man I could write headlines for the Sun Times.

In summary the parents of some London schoolchildren were blocking driveways and basically causing a traffic nightmare for residents near a school. 'Transport for London' paid for 12 scooters and 8 bikes for the school to lend to children to get to school and another 20 scooters for lunchtime use.

".....Now about 170 pupils ride or scoot to school. My own children wouldn't go anywhere until they got scooters, and now they will travel anywhere on them."... (Anna Davis, Education Correspondent)

Problem solved. Easy isn't it. The power of not being slave to the automobile. Full story at the London Evening Standard.

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Chris Hoy fumes at fans' Twitter abuse

2011-12-12T16:24:00.000-06:00

Dopey Spurs fans have confused the legendary track cyclist with Premier League referee Chris Foy, the match official who presided over Tottenham's controversial 2-1 defeat by Stoke City on Sunday.

"Just for the record 1) I don't need glasses and 2) I do not lead a double life as an English premier league ref. That's Chris Foy," Hoy tweeted.

More at Yahoo.co.uk

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I think Robin Moore is from Portland, OR not the Swiss Alps but it's hard to tell because Euro Pop really is this bad, some would say 'this bad, it's this good!'.

But he has an albums worth of bike related euro trash on his You Tube channel, so go take a look if you dare.

As you can see the bike music vid thing has taken hold. I will hold off on Queen's Bicycle race for a little while longer - Oh sod it.....

Scene in Chicago

2011-12-11T07:00:00.000-06:00

Just a couple for now.

Sometimes a bike catches my eye because of its colour, maybe even its poise, this one looks like it is just plain fun to ride and practical to boot. Plus look at the great headbadge!

Molly was quite taken by these bikes from Chicago's hire scheme.

Probably because they are big and don't fall over when you start climbing on them.

Oh and this is quite random..

'Bike Art' - the coffee table art book is on the shelves and I am so chuffed.

2011-12-09T09:04:00.001-06:00

I am seriously so proud and humbled to be included in this book.

My huge thanks and congratulations to Kiriakos Iosifides and the team at Carpe Diem.

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chuffed

The book really is beautiful, with clear layouts and text and crisp images and colour. The amount of artists from around the world included can only hint at a herculean task to find, contact, collate, organise and finally distribute this achievement.

One of my first impressions on browsing through the book whilst on the CTA was who would have thought there are so many artists who include bikes in their art. It's amazing and it's also only Volume 1!

Such a great variety of styles are included in the book, graffiti, frame painting, fine art, illustration, sculpture, conceptual bikes and bike advocacy projects.

Right now I wanted to get some pictures of the book up and share the great news. Over the next week or so I will endeavour to share a few more of my favourite pieces from within this tome's pages and encourage you to go buy your own copy. Go on do it now. Or get someone to buy it for you for Christmas.

The book is available at the US publishers: Gingko Press

In Europe from: Publikat

And at your favourite local bookstore.

In Progress - Gilbert

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Slowly being able to find small chunks of time to continue working on this painting.
Working on something like this over such a long period does lead to some continuity issue but I think it is starting to gel. All of the large blocks of form are in and now I can stand back and see areas that need correcting or re-drawing. Enjoying things that are happening though.

A couple of detail photos after the jump...

'Bats in the Attic' - new unfortunate habit of finding bikes in music videos

2011-12-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

or will it be a short lived fad....

more again: King Creosote

50 No Handed Bike Moves as demonstrated by Martin Brooks.....

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-06:00

... to the tune of his ditty "Golden Tree".

more here: www.myspace.com/martinbrooks

Personally even after approximately 30 years of bike riding I am still a little uncomfortable with #1.

I hope you won't hold that against me.

NYC Dept Transport sending mixed messages with its curbside Haiku.

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-06:00

Whilst I applaud the idea, the graphics and the intent of stressing 'shared responsibility' I do wonder if the humour could be misread.

The article is on Core 77 and they point out that the images will primarily only be safely legible for pedestrians and stationary cyclists, not the drivers.

There is a reason it is called a bike lane and should cycling in a bike lane be compared to taking part in a raffle with your own life.

It just strikes me that even though the idea is to share responsibility for the accidents there are no negative results for drivers in these statements. It is cyclists and pedestrians who are the victims, almost reassuring the drivers that they won't get hurt, there are no negative repercussions for their indiscretions, safely ensconced in their three ton bullets the undertow that runs into friends.

Still it's nice to know they are trying to do something artistic with all the money they have collected from speeding cyclists in the last few years in Central Park!

Full unadulterated article here: Core 77 Curbside Haiku

A great T-Shirt showing an exploded mech....

2011-12-03T08:34:00.001-06:00

...for sale on Pro-Bike Kit right now.
Free shipping too.

Andrew Hem

2011-12-03T07:00:00.000-06:00

'Beginning of an era'

I just found Andrew Hem's work, by chance some paintings contain bikes, but really the paintings themselves are just so atmospheric and hint at magical stories.

'Bigger than'

'Oner'

Particularly worth looking at some of his earlier work which shows how his 'style' has developed over a few years.

I love getting to see what might be going on in an artist's.....well confidence I guess, discovering new ways to communicate and trusting in those decisions.

Please visit his site to see more: Andrew Hem

Cavendish for BBC Sports Personality of the Year?!

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-06:00

We all knew he would get this nod, he deserves it. Many think David Millar deserves it for being captain on the road during the World's but really if any British cyclist deserves to be on the list this year it's Cav.

Can you guess the last time a cyclist won?

Tom Simpson in 1965 after he also won the World Championships.

Nope! - Chris Hoy won in 2008.

And Beryl Burton was second in 1967.

There are 9 other people vying for the award, all men unfortunately. I haven't been following their exploits but I reckon it's down to Cavendish, Mo Farah (athletics) and Andrew Strauss (cricket).

It's a phone vote during the broadcast on Dec 22nd and therefore should represent the British public's choice.

There are also awards for:

'Overseas Sports Personality' won in 1963 by Jacques Anquetil and 2003 by Lance Armstrong

'Team of the Year' won by the GB Olympic Cycling Team in 2008

'Coach Award' won by Dave Brailsford for 2008's Olympic Medal tally

More information about the awards at: BBC Sports Personality

Image above by Getty Images as seen on BBC website.

Revolution #2

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

I took some liberties choosing the choice moments of Revolution #2 from Manchester.
This evening was notable for the presence of Mark Cavendish, Geraint Thomas, Steven Burke and Iljo Keisse, Franco Marvulli and Magnus Backstedt amongst others.

A full report and results can be found here: http://www.cyclingrevolution.com/event_round2.php

Core 77 Holiday Gift Guide contains hipster bike goodness.

2011-11-28T12:40:00.001-06:00

As I often refer to bike related articles on Core 77 it is only fair that I direct you to their store to spend your money on some fun design and bicycle related toys in time for Christmas.

Please click on the picture below:

New use for old bike chains

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

Well I hope they are old chains.
Artist Young-Deok Seo has created these:

More here: Seo, Young-Deok

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Bicycle Portraits by Stan Engelbrecht and Nic Grobler

2011-11-22T07:24:00.000-06:00

Bicycle Portraits - A photographic book in the making from Bicycle Portraits on Vimeo.

All the information you can shake a pedal wrench at is on the Kickstarter page for Bicycle Portraits.

"Stan Engelbrecht & Nic Grobler have spent the last 2 years cycling over 6000 kilometers to collect over 500 portraits of everyday commuters throughout South Africa, and now the Bicycle Portraits project is finally near completion.

Visit the Bicycle Portraits website to see the project online..."

What a great project and a wonderful experience for Stan and Nic.

Visit the kickstarter page to discover more and how to support them if you can.

Bicycle Portraits / Part II from Bicycle Portraits on Vimeo.
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Scene in Chicago

2011-11-21T17:00:00.000-06:00

Street sculpture in Rogers Park.

Outside the Old Town School of Folk Music, more and more kids travelling to class by bike.

Parked at my local Blue Line stop.

What a gorgeous bike. Wonderful orange.

No idea if Ice Cream Bikes are linked to Ube's Ice Cream shop which is well known for turning out killer paint jobs.

Just caught my eye.

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

Wade at Cyclingtips posted this vid on his site.

I am sure we all noticed cameras on bikes at various points of the year.

'Note the aerodynamic failings of the GoPro camera causing their TT camerman to get caught' - only joking. Great video.

2011-11-16T16:53:00.001-06:00

I have said it before - it's a beautiful magazine - More at: Boneshaker Magazine

100mph Concept track bike - Monkey Likes Shiny

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

Monkey Likes Shiny - 100mph + concept track bike from Matt Ducot on Vimeo.

Wanna go fast. Monkey does.

I mean Jeff Tiedeken and his brother Jason do.

They went out of the box for the initial concepts and are now building the first concept bike.

You may have noticed there is no fork and therefore the steering will involve some cables, I have no idea what's going to happen there, and that is a temporary 90+ tooth chainring.

Lots more info from the brothers over at Monkey Like Shiny.

Looking forward to seeing how this and future versions develop.

Follow their progress on Monkey Likes Shiny.

Not certain but I may have first seen this on Ride The Black Line.

Sprung Steel - Bike wheels of the future?

2011-11-11T19:01:00.001-06:00

I doubt it.

But this is the Two Nuns bicycle by Ron Arad which is available for bidding as part of the WOW Bikes Charity Auction which benefits the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

Heck if I write anymore and post the pictures I'm pretty much guilty of plagurism of the Core 77 website.

"It's always worth checking Core 77".

Two Nuns Bike by Ron Arad from Dezeen on Vimeo.

So what do the other bikes look like, what gems did society manage to create?

Well nothing too spectacular.
Alice Temperley came up with this:

Patrick Cox did this:

and it has to be the best on offer, I mean it comes with cupcakes. What more could you want?

and a few other people did some bikes too - go check it out and support the cause.

Zoobomb on the BBC

2011-11-09T07:51:00.000-06:00

Click on the image to watch a short piece from the travel section of the BBC website featuring the Zoobomb.

2012 Olympic posters

2011-11-07T08:05:00.000-06:00

Here are the posters that will be used for next year's Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The organisers selected twelve leading British artists to create posters that would represent the games.

So far the fuss in British the press revolves around the lack of 'Olympic Rings', logos, or references to London and the UK.

....But the absence of traditional symbols will leave a lot to the public's imagination, instead, abstract paintings and thick brushstrokes are supposed to symbolise the Games values of respect, excellence and friendship.
But to go beyond sport was exactly the idea, according to Emin, who defended the modernist approach.
"The previous posters were all about strength and I don't feel that way. People who watch the Olympics like the emotional side of it," she said.
"Culture runs alongside the Olympics. London and Britain have a lot of more to offer than just sport and it really is a good chance for the UK to show everything that is going on in art. .... Yahoo Sport

This is the piece that most immediately caught my eye - I guess it's the Olympic Rings but not... here is what the artist Rachel Whiteread says about her piece, which may or may not be helpful.

To visit the homepage for the posters and learn more about them and purchasing please click here: http://festival.london2012.com/about/posters/posters.php

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Pendleton preparing for 2012 Olympics.

2011-11-05T07:30:00.000-05:00

The Guardian newspaper has just published the final part of it's two piece interview with 'Queen Vic'.

Click here to go to Part 1.

Revolution #1

2011-11-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

The Revolution series got underway in Manchester, UK a couple of weekends ago.

Here is some action from the Madison TT and the Sprint finals.

Find out more about the Revolution here: http://www.cyclingrevolution.com/

The next event on the 19 November features Mark Cavendish, Geraint Thomas, Magnus Backstedt and Ed Clancy.

The Slow Coast

2011-11-02T06:30:00.000-05:00

Militag's recent newsletter included a nod to Nick Hand who recently completed his book 'Conversations on the Coast';

"...I rode my bicycle around the coast of Wales, England and Scotland. Then I kind of got a pang for more, so 2010 I set off around the coast of Ireland. On my way I called in on some of the artisans who live on the coast. I edited and uploaded the resulting little soundslides of these encounters as I went."

Nick has two ways of sharing his experiences with us, his book, and on his site a collection of 'soundslides' which are short slideshows with the subject verbally sharing their work/passion. I have looked at a couple so far but certainly aim to watch them all. For anyone interested in the arts, crafts, history and people this is well worth your time. There are some bicycle focused films featuring other touring riders, shop owners, mechanics etc but the variety of traditional crafts/arts/skills/professions is just staggeringly beautiful and romantic.

Please visit Nick's site to see all the soundslides, learn more about his trips and the book.

I'll be ordering the book when I am next in the UK. I can't wait.

This reminds me, my wife rescued a rather large loom and it is sitting patiently in our basement for more more space so repairs can be investigated and lessons can be learnt, then who knows?

Happy Chicagoween

2011-10-31T10:37:00.003-05:00

Molly and I caught the Midnight Circus as part of Chicagoween.

Sandy's Circus

2011-10-30T18:50:00.002-05:00

'Sandy's Circus' is a picture book about the life of Alexander Calder, wonderfully written by Tanya Lee Stone and beautifully illustrated by Boris Kulikov.

It contains another great example of a bike in children's literature. Now I am noticing them in illustrations all the time when reading with Molly. It's great.

As with all good books this led to some further investigation and I discovered that Calder also chose bicycles to be the subjects of some works. Even Six Day races.

'Six DayBike Race' by Alexander Calder, 1924, oil on canvas, 30by 30 inches, 1924

Calder Foundation, New York

'Circus: The Bicycle Act'

Further down the rabbit hole and I discover that in 1975 Calder was asked by BMW to design their 'art car' for that year's Le Mans 24 - here is the result.

Well, it's dated I guess.

For a modern take on this we can turn to Jeff Koons who has apparently been begging BMW to let him do an 'art car'.

I bet they are glad they gave in. It's superb.

Graeme O'Bree - still a genius

2011-10-28T07:51:00.004-05:00

Here is an interview with Graeme from the Guardian newspaper in the UK.

Graeme Obree: building bikes, writing books and beating depression
The record-breaking cyclist, author and bike-design genius discusses knee injuries, his follow-up memoir and why he'd like 'to build bikes which say hand-crafted in Britain'

Click the picture to go to the page.

The Shlecks - well they have to have a sense of humour eh!

2011-10-26T16:35:00.001-05:00

How do I follow that!

Frank and Andy start at 12 minutes something.

The bit at 23:50 on is just superb - "You're security?"

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Mark Weber v Alain Prost on Alpe D'Huez

2011-10-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

From Rugby to F1.

Mark Weber of Red Bull F1, is an accomplished cyclist, this summer he took part in a challenge with Alain Prost, F1 legend, to ride up Alpe D'Huez. The legend was just a little quicker than the Aussie.

News of Webber pitting himself against the gradient of Alpe d'Huez has turned out to be big news Down Under, because it was here that his compatriot, Cadel Evans, ripped holes in his rivals en route to victory in this year's Tour de France. And for all the camaraderie between Webber and Prost over this evening's meal, tomorrow's jolly is sure to develop something of a competitive edge as they approach the summit. One's a four-time F1 world champion, the other is a top driver in one of the toughest eras that Formula 1 has ever witnessed. How could it not be competitive?
At the end of the meal, when - rather surprisingly - everyone's enjoying a shot of grappa, Prost asks about the programme for the following day. He suggests that we all stick together for the duration of the ride, but Webber's having none of it. "Before we get to the climb, let's stick together," he offers matter-of-factly. "But on the climb itself, I want to push myself. I want to see how fast I can do it and how I stack up against the professionals." Prost smiles and bites a fingernail, clearly relishing the spirit of competition that's developing. "If you want," he says quietly. "This could be fun." from F1 Racing magazine

Here's the video from Red Bull:

Bike Art Mural Project in Greece - Carpe Diem

2011-10-22T09:33:00.001-05:00

I just received a great email from Kiriakos Iosifidis of Carpe Diem in Greece. The Bike Art book that he has put together showcasing cycling art from around the world, including myself, will be published in November and I should receive a copy hot off the press by December - 'Woo Hoo!'

Carpe Diem was also responsible for putting together this great street mural featuring some of Greece's hottest urban artists and help from the locals of all ages and abilities.

What a fantastic piece of work.

And if that wasn't enough they also held a gallery show entitled Bike Art in October.
Website and artists here: click image below.

The French 'really' want to win Le Tour De France....

2011-10-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

.......just ask Yannick Noah.

Here is a link to a BBC article. Nothing new here but still......

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/mattslater/2011/10/ghostbusters_the_milk_cup_fran.html

'FixyLife' chosen for the National Art Museum of Sport International Competition 2012

2011-10-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am so honored that for the second year I will have a piece at the National Art Museum of Sport's 'Commitment to Excellence in Art and Sport' winners exhibit. 'FixyLife' was chosen to be hung alongside 58 other pieces of superb artwork featuring sports.

The show is at the NAMOS building in Indianapolis, it opens with a reception next Thursday, 27 October, and closes on the 29th February 2012. If you are nearby please go see the show.

The NAMOS website is here: www.NAMOS.iupui.edu

NAMOS,  located  in  Indianapolis,  is  a  501(c)(3) solely  funded  by  donations.  The  Museum  is  dedicated  to  a  two‐pronged  mission  to  both  encourage  artists  to  create  art  depicting  sports,  and  also to collect,  preserve,  and  share  the  best  examples  of  sport  art  NAMOS  can  acquire. NAMOS  was founded  in  1959  and  features  one  of  the  nation’s  largest  collections  of  fine  art  depicting  sport includes  more  than  900  paintings,  photographs, sculptures, and mixed media works  representing  some  40  sports.  

My thanks again to Takuya Harayama, Fixy Life, for allowing me to reference his original photograph.

His fantastic Flickr stream can be found here: http://www.flickr.com/people/31560964@N07/

Cyclomaniacs 2

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Not endorsing this - but it's there if you want it!

Click on the picture.

2011-10-17T10:59:00.000-05:00

I just saw this posted over on Prolly is not Probably so go visit the blog sometime and see the other great stuff John discovers.

I lived in NYC for 5 years and frequented Bicycle Habitat, I am not going to claim to be a regular, or even someone who knew Hal but if you have ever met him he's hard to forget. Quite a character and it all comes cross in the video.

Bicycle Traveler Magazine and Eric Atwell

2011-10-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

I was recently led down the interwebs to the Bicycle Traveler website where you can download the first free issue of the magazine. This cover photograph is just the first of many great images within. The stories are short, sweet and inspiring. Probably a bit too adventurous for my family right now but the travel fire is burning and we will embark on something in a few years. Also some reviews for travel specific kit. Here is the story that stands out for me, but you'll have to get the mag to read it in full.

In the 1930's Eric Atwell, and his brother Jack, cycled from South Africa to London. He is now an 85 year old legend amongst bicycle travellers. You have to love stories like this, made even more romantic by the apparent 'primitiveness and naivety' of the adventure. They will be saying that about us in one hundred years. It looks like Eric wrote a book about the journey which I will endeavour to track down, any help out there?

Here is a page from the story in Bicycle Traveler which you can read in full by visiting the Bicycle Traveler website and downloading the free issue.

Wales vs France - World Cup Semi Final

2011-10-15T18:19:00.002-05:00

This morning I watched Wales play France in the first semi-final of the World Cup. They lost by a single point. 17 minutes into the game they seemed to be starting to dominate the French, then one misjudged/unfortunate tackle, a penalty and controversial refereeing decision and Wales played the next hour with 14 men against France's 15. Wales' young captain and monumental player Sam Warburton was sent off for lifting and dumping a player in a tackle. Yes a penalty but probably, well in many a game, it would only have been a 10 minute sin binning. The press is now full of debates about whether the decision was correct, was the penalty that bad, were Wales robbed? Let's not forget that Wales also missed 4 kicks all of which would have meant they won.

What I want to get off my chest is the fact that everyone expected Wales to implode after that dismissal. But ten minutes into the second half and Wales were back in charge, struggling in places but forcing France to play defensively and scoring the game's only try. They played fantastically. Losing by one point actually made me more positive about the defeat. They could have been thrashed, all but the best of teams would have been. Instead Wales proved themselves to be probably the best team in the tournament, Wales v New Zealand would have been one hell of a final. Instead the play off for third and fourth against New Zealand or Australia will probably feel like and be played like the final. I actually would prefer they play NZ although I hope NZ get to, and then demolish France, in the final.

I am not one to say 'we' played brilliantly. 'I' did not play, the team did. But I am bloody proud of the team and proud to be Welsh. If you see someone in a Welsh cycling jersey around Chicago in the next couple of weeks, it may well be me.

Scene in Dallas

2011-10-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

One of the side benefits to being a stay at home Dad with a nursing toddler is that when Mum is asked to work away from home, we get to go too. Two weekends ago I was able to actually leave the terminal at Dallas instead of just changing planes. We were staying at a very nice/fairly expensive hotel actually above Terminal D with a great view of the runways. This was great except we couldn't afford to eat at the hotel and all the airport stores were behind security, it's also an hour plus to either city from the airport on 2 buses and one train.

We did get into Dallas and Fort Worth though. I tried to photograph anything bike related. This is all I could come up with. Not to say that Dallas is a bicycle wasteland, Molly and I just didn't see the best of the city.

Bike locks at the TRE rail station.

Damn you hotel mini bar with your $4 Kit Kats

Sky Mall is a magazine filled with wonder!

'Gilbert' painting- There is some progress

2011-10-12T21:23:00.002-05:00

I can not believe I started this one back in April based on his tremendous early season results and look what he has achieved since then. I guess he should really be in his Belgian Champs jersey or new BMC colours. Other pieces of work have happened since then and Gilbert has been nagging me for months.

I was able to return to this last week but that session led to me seriously considering giving up on it in order to make better use of my time on something that was working, something fresh. Today salvaged that somewhat. I basically worked on the skin, in places overworked it, but for now we are back on track. Still not quite sure where it is headed but once the jersey is up to the same level of finish I should be able to work out what it needs. The colours certainly need to be balanced, toned down etc, but we'll see.

Each time I finish a piece I start to plan to use that particular technique or even accident again in the next one. When I start the next all that goes out of my head and I just want to get it done. Today I think I noticed where some of those elements have come into play in this piece. Not sure how successfully but it's a start. I guess unconsciously I am learning with each work and unconsciously putting those elements into practice.

My 'studio' time ended when my wife and daughter returned and Molly insisted she could paint with 'Daddy's paint'. This seemed like a good use of the left over blobs on my palette until she pointed out that my painting needed some more blue. The painting disappeared to another room and we found an alternative solution. I am amazed that she painted the facial features herself. See, that's a Dad talking......

This can be available for purchase or prints if needed!

Scene in Chicago

2011-10-12T07:22:00.000-05:00

I just realised this isn't the first time I have seen a warning like this but I can't remember the last.

Looks like an ok bike other than the flat rear and the the bike stand. You have to love the wording of the law... "... and bears physical indicia of having been deserted."

Speaking of having been deserted. Or maybe stolen. Can these really be recycled by the blue bins?

More tyre recycling. This puppeteer in Lincoln Square has made this terrific dragon character out of an old mtb tyre. Took me a while to work it out but it's so simple really. The body is a tyre, cut and painted.

Even more remarkable is the fact that Sarah and I actually managed to ride together, without Molly in her iBert, for the first time in recent memory.

Classic Hill Climbs of South London, Catford CC and Bec CC

2011-10-10T10:21:00.001-05:00

The Catford Hill Climb 2011 from Optimal Cadence Films on Vimeo.

Yesterday was one of the classics days of the racing scene south of London, UK.

The Catford CC hill climb on Westerham Hill in Kent was first held on high wheelers in 1887.

Then in the afternoon Tooting Bec CC hold their hill climb on the nearby White Lane.

Last year 15 year old Germaine Burton the Becc race, he successfully defended his title yesterday, looks like he may have a future!

Germaine Burton of Dever Cycles.

I'll be in the lookout for more video from the events.

Please visit these sights for more info.

History of Catford CC's event here: http://www.vimeo.com/30273999

Results for Catford: London Cyclesport

Results for Becc CC: London Cyclesport

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The SeeSaw Bike by Brooks of England.

2011-10-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

"....Design buffs may recall that in 2009 we commissioned a piece of playground equipment from Ben Wilson, with whom Brooks had worked before on other projects, such as the Stüssy Limited Edition White Swallow. The end product was Seebikesaw, which we showed at 100% Design in London that year.
At the time, Ben was keen to produce an object which evoked the innocent playfulness of childhood in general, while simultaneously referencing his more adult appreciation for the bicycle in particular.
With “drop handlebars”, a couple of B33‘s for posterial comfort and a few rolls of Brooks leather bar tape to ensure a firm grip, the Seebikesaw has since been enthusiastically “ridden” wherever we have taken it...."

Taken from the Brooks Blog.

Premium Rush

2011-10-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

What more need I say other than Mr Leavitt doesn't really look like a messenger, maybe he doesn't seem to 'be' a messenger. Still it's bikes in movies. Gotta promote that for now.

To be honest though the car hitting the bike, can't watch that - becoming a Dad really did something to me!

More about Premium Rush here: http://www.premiumrush.com/

Wales into the semis - could be a very late night for me next Friday

2011-10-08T01:54:00.000-05:00

Olympic Architecture of London 2012

2011-10-06T07:30:00.000-05:00

Sarah and I are still undecided about visiting London during the Olympics next year. We will be in the UK for Summer so why not?

Crowds and prices really. It's going to be busy and we don't have tickets for any events.

Still we'll think about it, maybe the Tour wil have to do instead.

Anyway here is a nice piece on the BBC about the architecture of the games - shame about the village, even in 'legacy' mode it's pretty disgusting.

Click the image to visit the BBC page.

The Clymb - 'groupon' of adventures

2011-10-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

So many of us are getting emails telling us about half price pedicures, subscriptions to 'Good Food' magazine and trendy disposable diapers.

You might as well join 'The Clymb' and get a daily email for greatly reduced clothing and products from outdoor adventure and sports companies such as Optic Nerve, Burton, Mountain Hardware and Danny Shane.

There has been half price jerseys, glasses and gloves etc.

More at The Clymb

How does he do it?

2011-10-03T11:26:00.001-05:00

Fermilab - cest Finis!

2011-10-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to find reason/impetus for some of my longer rides, hence the Wisconsin border ride, the into Indiana escapade and the visit to Major Taylor's Grave. Two more prominent plans remain, the Tillie Ride and the Breweries. There has been another though - but alas it appears it may be too late.

The US government just pulled the plug on Fermilab.

Who wants to fund the world's second largest particle accelerator? I mean why would the United States of America waste money on being second? They don't fund soccer, they don't fund education, electric cars anyone? Don't they realise how many other countries you are ahead of if you are second.... I mean what can you achieve if you are only second - come on!

Sorry Fermilab. I hope all involved find great opportunities elsewhere, probably in Switzerland where they can enjoy better chocolate too.

I may still make it out to pay my respect and pop into Two Brothers whilst I am there.

Oh and I just got back from a long weekend in Dallas Fort Worth - interesting.........or was it.

Carbon Fiber - What it costs.

2011-10-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Ok so this is all from Gizmodo and nothing to do with me. Just sharing it.

Found on Gizmodo and written by Rachel Swaby: a freelance writer living in San Francisco. Check her out on Twitter.

"When carbon fiber was first trotted out in solid rocket motor cases and tanks in the 1960s, it was poised to not only take on fiberglass, but also a whole host of other materials.
What happened?
50 years later it's still an exotic material. Sure, Batman's got it in his suit, expensive cars feature smatterings of it in their dashboards and performance parts, but at $10 a pound on the low end, it's still too pricy for wide-scale deployment. We've been using this stuff for decades. Where's our materials science Moore's Law to make this stuff cheap? Why is this stuff still so expensive?
Turns out that even half a century later, this stuff is still a major pain in the ass to make...."

more here: Why is Carbon Fiber so expensive?

Re-creating Tillie Anderson's Century race win.

2011-10-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

The first road race Tillie Anderson entered was a century that started and finished in Chicago.
There is a simple illustration in 'Tillie the Terrible Swede' that suggests the route taken through neighbouring counties. As soon as I saw it I knew I should do it, I wanted to know more about the actual race and route. I wrote to Alice Roepke (Tillie's great niece), Sue Stauffacher (the book's author) and Sarah Mcmenemy (the illustrator), no one had any specific information but all were intrigued by the idea and wanted to know more. Their enthusiasm made me investigate further and come up with the idea of trying to ride the route and also take pictures to compare what it looks like now to then.

I found 'The Wheelmen' and asked the right questions on their forum. The immediate response was that it started on Ogden in the city followed that road all the way to Aurora and then North to Elgin and back to the city on Lake. This route can be plotted, as described, on Googlemaps/MapMyRide so the roads are still there. But I also agree with the forum advice of not to ride on those roads. A century after Tillie's first win all 3 of the main roads used have become heavily trafficed, potholed arteries, certainly not somewhere drivers would be expecting or particularly welcoming to bikes. The advice was to follow alternative side roads or the trails that almost follow the same triangular route. I really want to get on those same roads though, surely that's the point. Guess I'll just get out early one morning and see how things are.

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/43980126"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Tillie Ride?&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/?location=Chicago, IL"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Cycling Routes / Bike Rides in Chicago, IL&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Having done the Sub 5 Century I figured that my season was over, but both this and a ride to the Two Brothers Brewery are still calling out to be done. Unfortunately based on my family's commitments and time available to me I can't see either happening, depends on when the weather breaks. Certainly on my to do list for 2012 though.

Here's a couple of reports of century rides from 1891 and 1893 that used this same route.
I can't believe the run in with the police, hilarious. Can you imagine that ride on poor roads, on heavy slow bikes and wearing some pretty cumbersome clothing? Fantastic riding. The reports are from 'The Bearings' and 'Bicycle World' and were sent to me by Carey Williams of 'The Wheelmen'.

Kidical Mass in Chicago

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

My family and I didn't get to many of this year's Kidical Mass rides this year, but I made a point of taking some pictures on our last visit.

Kidical Mass is a ride for children and their families. From tiny babes up to 8 year old older siblings they ride, some on i-berts, chariots, back seats, in buckets and even on their own. The ride sticks mainly to side streets and those with large bike lanes and lasts about 45 minutes or so, ending at a local playground. Parents act as an escort and politely close junctions to allow the ride through etc, there has not been much impatience from drivers and the parade is often clapped and cheered along it's route.

Here are some pictures of the myriad of ways to introduce children to cycling and a flavour of the festival.

Scene in Chicago

2011-09-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

More sights from Chicago.
This bike caught my eye due to the decal on the top tube.
Is it named after the Little Indy 500 or was it made and ridden in the Little Indy 500?

The following is a little addition to the previous posting of Molly doing some action painting. She went back, this time with me and I caught her in action. To be honest it wasn't leaving much paint behind but she seemed to just love going in circles fast, on two wheels at times.

Maybe she is honing her velodrome skills?

Note that the bike is a Turin racer.

I don't know if this little scamp had an accident or got caught stealing wheels, but the moment has been preserved in a mural on 57th Street.

Wicker Park/Bucktown has some fresh new bike racks.

And this is me modelling the latest in cycling headgear and used as human gyroscope in Steve Belliveau's 'Getting Excited About Science' show, firmly aimed at kids but he's quite the performer.

I learn something every time I see him.

US Pro Cycling Challenge VIP pictures

2011-09-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

As well as having my art selected to be used at the US Pro Cycling Challenge they also sent me 4 VIP passes to final day's finish in Denver. Rather than spend family money on air fare and hotels I asked an Uncle in law in Denver, who would be out of town, if he knew of someone who could make the most of the day. Last year one of Uncle Paul's colleagues was hit by a car whilst riding and currently has a leg and ankle made of metal pins, bummer. Here hat he said about the day and some photos they took:

"The amount of support from the people of Colorado really showed. The crowd was loud and excited every time a rider or a group of riders went by. The tour is on again for next year because Colorado loves cycling. That's why I moved here from Texas ten years ago." Eric Cato (in the yellow hat)

and his lucky friend....

"...Overall, the experience was phenomenal. What an amazing crowd. This was a huge event for Denver and was extremely well attended. The energy and excitement were truly over the top. It was such a pleasure to have front-row seats to the finish line. Seeing the riders pass by six different times, as they completed the circuits of Speer Blvd, was exceptional. Not quite the Champs Elysees but it created a similar feeling. " Craig Bachmann

World Championship via Tweet

2011-09-26T21:46:00.003-05:00

I am not a big fan of Twitter and such. As you will know if you are one of the disappointed three followers. But impatience regarding Cav's team for 2012 led me to visit his Twitter account. Pleasantly surprised by the variety of comments and the ability to visit linked tweeters in this case most of the GB squad. It was interesting to read their anticipation before the race and then their joy after. The photos add another behind the scenes layer to what we are presented in the mainstream media.

Here is the World Championships as Tweeted by some of Team GB:

'Open Streets' on State Street, Chicago

2011-09-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

On Saturday the 1st October State Street between Lake and Van Buren will be closed to traffic and open to humans. There is an element to the promotion for the event that suggests cycling will be one of the activities you can enjoy on the 'open street'. Looking at the amount of activities planned for the streets I doubt there will be room to move, that especially means you, you head down tri-bar triathletes.

It's going to be a fun day though, everything from kid's playgrounds, Capoeira lessons, dancing, skateboard park and yoga. It's the culmination of State Street's 'Go Do Good' yellow billboard charity art installation, which means finally we will be rid of the yellow billboards and signage - yay!

For once I will welcome back advertising.

Info here: http://openstreetsonstatestreet.org

Rouleur Derby - Join it it 2012

2011-09-25T21:32:00.000-05:00

I know I am meant to be toning down my competitive side but I just finished second in the 2011 season of Rouleur Derby.

Created by Luke Seeman, of Chicago Bike Racing fame and all around great bloke, Rouleur Derby is a fantasy parimutuel betting contest with entrants from across the globe, with no money exchanging any hands, it's all above board and completely made up. Which of course means some of us get a bit too caught up on who is going to win vs who we want to win etc. Most of the season I had been in the top ten based on my shameful habits of betting on numerous outcomes in each event, trying to ensure I made some profit as opposed to naming the winner and winning big. I did feel bad about this. So realized that when it came to the final event of the season I should go all in. Tony Martin started me off on the right foot but the women's road race cost me big time, I had plumped for 'The Brits' (thinking Lizzie Armistead), the Swedes (Emma Johannson), Australia (any of them) and my long shots of Belgium and Russia. So with half of my points gone I went with my heart and put the lot on Cavendish to win the men's. He did and I end up second place. Nice. Not claiming to have any superior talent in predicting winners in bike racing or anything, I was far too cagey for that.

It's a fun little element to the cycling season though and I know Luke would like it to continue growing and does have something in mind for next year that may involve some 'Kickstarter' help. Please keep it mind for 2012 and put me in my place next year.

Here's Luke's summary of the year:

Paxton Gate - PDX shop of wonders.

2011-09-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

Paxton Gate - Treasures and Oddities Inspired by the Garden and Natural Sciences - to give it's full postcard title.

We stumbled upon this curious store whilst wandering a street fair in Portland on Mississippi Ave. Wow.

What a fascinating place. I guess from the outside it looks like a gift shop with some taxidermy.

But it's more than that. It's a bit like entering another world, some kind of naturalist steampunk fantasy down the rabbit hole land of enchantment. My wife and daughter Molly were absorbed too.

Really head over to their site to learn and see more, here is a teaser:

"Philosophies
We at Paxton Gate are fascinated by the natural world....." - Click here.

Yeah it did raise a few ethical concerns when I walked in, as far as I knew some of this just isn't legal. Turns out I am incorrect, human bones etc are pretty much illegal, legally hunted or 'dead' animals are fair game, if you pardon the pun. It also reminded me of a pretty harrowing book I recently read: 'Beatrice and Virgil' by Yann Martel - great read - the final 'section' of the book is genius.

I plan on spending some more 'shopping time' on their site for those bizarre gifts that will make some one's day or make them wonder how the hell they know you!

Sketches of the Northwest

2011-09-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Every few months or so I draw something in a sketch book with the intent of drawing something in there everyday. It never gets very far. Stuff happens. But vacations on the other hand, that tends to work out.

So here are some pages from the trip to the Northwest.

Hurricane Ridge

Neah Bay

Ashland

Seattle

EMP Seattle

Towards the Ocean: A Film - from Militag

2011-09-21T12:07:00.000-05:00

'Paris - Brest' is towards the ocean '- Paris' is back again.

Pete Kelsey of Willesden CC rode PBP this year and filmed it. It's a pretty neat 15 minutes.

Having read a few negative accounts of the event, due to high numbers of riders and cramped control stations this movie makes it look fairly appealing, well once the field stretches out anyway. I'd love to know more about Pete's experiences, it sounds like he's done it a few times. What an undertaking - well done to all who qualify and participate. 1230km in under 90 hours.

From Road.cc:

Be warned, though, that you might want to join Audax UK at the end. As Pete says when we asked him how he felt, "Relieved and elated in equal measure. Relieved to have got back safely and without too much physical damage, and elated to have ridden well, in a lovely country where cyclists are made to feel special, at least for these few days.

"PBP is a joyous human endeavour, not easy but one which any cyclist who's reasonably fit and with correct motivation can achieve. I hope the film shows this and encourages others to have a go."

There's a whole four years to get ready for the next one.

Details: www.paris-brest-paris.org

Towards The Ocean - PBP 2011 from Milltag on Vimeo.

Marathon World Record and GB's first Olympic Athlete for 2012

2011-09-20T17:04:00.004-05:00

Cycling often seems to bear the brunt of some strange decisions by sporting bodies such as changes to UCI frame regulations and the changes in the world record rules which mean we now have two Hour Records, the UCI Hour Record and the Best Human Effort (UCI Absolute Record) held by Ondřej Sosenka (49.7km) and Chris Boardman (56.375).

Well cycling is not the only victim of such changes. The International Association of Athletics Federations just downgraded the World Record for the Women's Marathon from Paula Radcliffe's 2h15m25s to her earlier 2h17m42s. Why? Her faster time was set in a mixed gender race, therefore it will be considered as the 'World's Best' the 'World Record' can now only be set in Women's only races. The world's Marathon governing bodies do not agree with the IAAF's decision.

In other non-cycling news the GB Olympic team just announced it's first athlete to make the Olympic team for 2012. Ben Ainslie won a silver in 1996, and golds in 2000, 2004 and 2008. This year he has earned the opportunity to take the one spot available in the Finn fleet of sailing. 549 spots still available in the team. Get training.

Sarah's Key - Velodrome d'Hiver.

2011-09-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I posted about a distressing piece of Velodrome d'Hiver's past and a french movie chronicling the incident. I also discovered a novel called 'Sarah's Key' by Tatiana De Rosnay which also depicts the 'round up'. This was recently filmed starring Kristin Scott Thomas. I haven't watched it, since becoming a father I just can't watch anything like this. Fascinating stuff though. Click through for the trailer....

Sarah's Key | The Weinstein Company

Scene in the Northwest.

2011-09-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

Welcomed to the bike friendly Northwest by this bike hook on the rail from Seattle Airport to the city.

Later these are the provisions for bikes on Portland's rail system. Oh and that's a nice Rivendell.

Look out for the tramlines in Portland and don't ride without a front wheel.

Cherries picked from the streets of Portland and baked into pie in Ashland Oregon.

Standing Stone Brewing in Ashland, Oregon was the first business in the city to take the offer to buy it's streetside parking space and turn it into a bike corral. Any employees who commit to make 45 bike commutes a year get a free bike. Oregon State covered a third of the cost of each bike and also of the purchase of parking space. The beer is good too. So are these:

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Performance Tricycle Art - 500th Post

2011-09-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

No better way to celebrate my 500th post on the blog than with pictures of my daughter Molly creating art. Here she is at the Chicago Children's Museum about to leave a path of pigment on this giant canvas.

She needed a bigger brush.

Thanks so much to you for reading the blog, the growing number of page visits is the fuel that keeps me looking for things to share. I hope there is enough fun, enough beauty and well, just enough........

Cheers, Steve.

Cyclepedia: A Century of Iconic Bicycle Design

2011-09-15T12:25:00.001-05:00

There is a short post about the book 'Cyclepedia: A Century of Iconic Bicycle Design' on Core77 this morning.

It's technically the second volume showcasing 100 of Michael Embacher's personal bicycle collection.

Quite a collection too, exotic, rare and exquisite. Everyone a gem.

Or as Sir Paul Smith would put it:

I can absolutely identify with the amazing passion and collection of Michael Embacher. WHAT A COLLECTION... ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! All shapes, sizes and qualities. To be honest it’s just better to look at the book because words cannot describe these terrific cycles
Sir Paul Smith

More pictures and info at Core77.

Scene in Chicago

2011-09-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately this Midwest bike was unable to shed it's winter coat and instead sweats it's way through summer.

A 'Garelli'?

'Cannibal'

Sub 5 Century Ride

2011-09-13T12:30:00.000-05:00

I didn't think I would be saying this but: FAIL.

In a good way though.

Sunday started well at 4am as I found the Wales v South Africa World Cup Rugby match streaming online and was able to watch Wales play brilliantly and be on level terms when I switched it off. South Africa later won by 1 point.

I was surprised to be called up to the front at the race start as I was the 4th place fund raiser. Congratulations to everyone who helped raise $25k for the Paul Ruby Foundation.

I felt and saw an undercurrent at the event as people were preparing. Race fever. There was talk of 'how fast can we go?'. 'Which group will win?'. Someone asked about this being a TT and the organiser laughed that it wasn't 'really' a race. It didn't feel right for me, not what I had signed up for. Still at least I had been put with a group all planning to ride it in 4h50mins mainly consisting of a local Chicago bike team.

As we rolled off the plan was to do a rotating pace line and keep the speed at 23mph. It worked well for most of the first 33mile lap, half of which did seem to be into the wind. We also slowed to regroup after corners and the slight hills etc. The only thing that seemed particularly hard for me then was the act of concentration required to ride amongst others, but I settled into that and into rolling a gear at a constant pace. I was finding being in the receding line on the hills a little difficult though. The first lap time was 1h26 - putting us on target for a 4h20 finish - too quick!

Into the second lap and it was obvious that they were just going for it, no intention of riding to the announced 4h50 target. 1/4 into the lap and I was grateful for Mike #44's rear wheel to shelter behind as he organized a rotation in front of him in order to give me rest for a few miles. Just previously I had fought like a dog to catch back on after the group did not wait after a corner and boy do I mean fought like hell to get back. By this time though the rotation was getting racy. I found myself riding as if racing, lots of accelerations, some of them my fault based on my conditioning and practice, some of them because of the race undercurrent, all of them wearing me down. A century? Easy, done quite a few alone this year. Two hours of racing I just found out I can still handle and that would cover most 4th cat races. More than that - nope. I hadn't trained for it.

Shorter version is that we entered another corner as I was at the back, there was no regroup and I was popped. I laughed it off though. Just knowing that it was not what I had signed up for, I wasn't racing. No worries. Figured I would ride to the end of the lap and see where I stood. I think I had covered 58 miles in about 2 1/2 or 2 3/4 hours or something. Then I missed a turn. It looked familiar as I passed but I couldn't see the road markings or the arrow. So figured I would keep going till the next junction, or the next, maybe I'll ride toward the water tower near the school, maybe I should backtrack, no, no road markings, I'll go back further, oh look a group coming the other way I'll follow them. Then about 4 miles from the start/finish my front tyre was flat and rather than pull out the glass and fix the tube I figured I'd pump it up and ride it back. I was on the rim well before the finish.

By the time I completed my second 33 mile lap I had covered 75 miles, you do the math, and had a flat. The first lap took 1h26, the second lap had taken me 2h26, the officials thought there was a mistake with the system - I think not. Even with the slow second lap I was still running a 19.9 mph pace......

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/49757772"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;The Sub 5 Century&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/?location=Hampshire, IL"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Cycling Routes / Bike Rides in Hampshire, IL&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Seriously though - I wasn't feeling depressed at having 'FAILED' - quite the opposite. If I had entered with race mentality then maybe so, but instead I was thinking 'Speed touring' (it's a bit like speed archaeology - see 'Time Team'). If this event did anything I hope it tore out the last remaining remnants of cycling competition from my heart, threw it to the asphalt and crushed it under the 8 inch Sidi heels of a Belgian lycra clad dominatrix who goes by the name of Eddy. I felt pretty good. The event had done what I had wanted. Freed me. Now I need to work out what I do next. I'll save that for another post.

I have been asked if I would do it next year. Probably not. Not unless there is some way to address the focus of the event, is this a race or a 'challenge'? Maybe it's my mentality that needs adjustment. I thought this would be somewhere between a race and a 'traditional' century ride, it wasn't, but I guess I was. Oh and some slightly bigger course arrows that aren't green. Some volunteers were upset that I had managed to get lost. I wasn't, don't worry. Sometimes arrows blow away, fall or are collected by crows, who knows. I found my way back and was safe.

Thank you to every one who volunteered and organised the event. It did run smoothly. The Nascar style pit stops were alarming but fun, the snacks were welcome and we had the fanciest porta potties ever. Thanks also to the group I rode with, your good humour and help were appreciated, hope to meet you on the roads again soon. So glad we were able to help raise so much for the Paul Ruby Foundation and fund research into Parkinsons. John Vandevelde was guest starter for the event and auctioned off a Coors Classic race leaders jersey, that Davis Phinney had won, worn and signed along with Ron Kiefel - too rich for me but quite a piece.

Still working on my own rewards for completing the event and all it entailed over the year.

On Sunday I only drank half of this, it's strong and could feel it coursing through my drained body, so half seemed prudent. It's a barley wine beer called Hog Heaven by Avery Brewing.

And devoured this which was brought from the UK at Easter and is named Ambrosia for a reason.

Just couldn't get my sore Achilles tendons onto a bike and to the bakery on Monday morning - 'Take A Hike Scone' you will be mine soon.

Het Fairwheel Podium

2011-09-12T08:30:00.000-05:00

The one shop I did not want to miss whilst out that way was Het Fairwheel Podium in Portland.
I was lucky they were open late one evening and I was able to talk with Emiliano the owner. Here are his words from his site regarding the store/gallery:

All of this culminated in “Het Fairwheel Podium.” The direct English translation from the Dutch is “The Fairwheel Gallery.” I work with frame builders to bring in the highest quality hand built frames; and display componentry that forces everyone to re-think what a bicycle is. We have what I wanted. No longer will these bikes and components live only on blogs and forums. We’ll bring them here to a small space off the river in Northwest Portland where you can come in, drink some coffee, and talk bikes.
– Emiliano Jordan

The store holds First Thursdays when the have an open night featuring new cycling related artwork and photography on their walls as well as the opportunity to admire and discuss these gallery worthy bikes. They were prepping a couple of bikes for local racers who were racing that weekend and Emiliano remembered sleeping above Bicycle Heaven in Chicago when they raced Superweek a few years ago. Hopefully I'll be able to get a few of my prints over to Het Fairwheel sometime soon. Maybe that's where I'll reveal a finished Gilbert?

A 'Keith Anderson' cruiser, maybe just my size or maybe Molly's in a year or so.
Imagine having this as a first bike.

'Ruegamer'

Het Fairwheel Podium website here: http://www.hetfairwheelpodium.com

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Gilbert - Work in progress

2011-09-09T09:00:00.002-05:00

Vengeance in Vegas

2011-09-08T08:41:00.000-05:00

The Circulus is on the move again.

It's travelling from Portland to Interbike in Vegas where it will be installed by the lounge for all to try.

On September the 14th at noon Tim Johnson and Jeremy Powers will clash at Vegas for the first time in opposing team colours.

I have no idea what the format of the race will be, Rapha will surely release a video of the event.

Vengeance in Vegas here: http://rapha-focus.cx/2011/09/06/vengeance-in-vegas/

And an interview with Jeremy Powers, who recently joined Rapha Focus cyclocross team, here .

Which he probably did because the jersey is gorgeous.

2011-09-07T09:00:00.001-05:00

My first bike store stop whilst on vacation in the Northwest was at 'A Better Cycle': 2324 SE Division St., Portland, OR.

I stumbled upon it because we were eating at the highly recommended and nearby 'Pok Pok', which I can only recommend if you like your Thai food, more Thai and less Western - ie spicy.

The very inviting open exterior with street side repairs and murals led us into the eclectic interior. I spoke briefly with Aaron, owner of the splendid 8 year old Raleigh Cap. He told me they have been open about 3 years, primarily deal with commuters and street riders and that their business is growing as Portland's cycling scene booms. There is more here courtesy of Google.

Google Places Portland - A Better Cycle from Agency Charlie on Vimeo.

That's an amazing cap, held together with stitching previously only encountered on 18th Century whaling ships, will power, pride and romanticism. Superb.

Visit A Better Cycle online here: A Better Cycle.

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Amazing win at World Championships

2011-09-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Admittedly I was not following the Mountain Bike World Championships then a friend posted this on Facebook.

Not a huge fan of the Narrator's passionate screaming - not very British I guess, maybe the stiff upper lip is falling out of the gene pool - but bloody exciting to watch. Typical Brit to just go hell for leather in the wet, what the hell right - what an amazing ride.

Congratulations to Danny Hart.

More on Cyclingnews and here: Danny Hart.co.uk

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Apologies

2011-09-04T15:03:00.001-05:00

There will be a small delay in posting as I fight off some sickness - hopefully in time for the coming Sub 5 Century.

Thanks, Steve.

Happy Birthday Keanu

2011-09-01T20:47:00.001-05:00

Velo Ipsum - Lorem Ipsum for Bike Nerds

2011-08-31T21:43:00.002-05:00

Lorem ipsum petacchi petacchi rouleur derby is for lovers horizontally stiff but vertically compliant leberg, flanders venga venga venga cavendish ronde van belgie allez. Lanterne rouge nokere koerse, omloop het nieuwsblad bonk randonneur sanchez tiegemberg campagnolo.

Gp ouest france plouay wevelgem muur vaughters. Ullrich paris-roubaix with, randonneur bromont giro del friuli luz ardiden kelly bartali, suitcase of courage gimondi the Druber. Chicane gruppetto for maillot jaune.

Cog domestique once bonk driedaagse de panne-koksijde bartali, mmmaiko supplesse. Fabianese ullrich rouleur cornet grimpeur, vandenbroucke landbouwkrediet col de perjuret an grimpeur ronde van vlaanderen? Col de perjuret off the back gavia contador tour de mont aigoual bottechia.

You liked that didn't you?

Want some more?

Need to fill some empty copy space with the language of velo love?

You know you want it.....

Go to Luke's Velo Ipsum page to grab some copy or copy the code to generate your own oily sprocket.

And whilst your at it you'll discover Rouleur Derby and can wonder wt how so many 'safe bets' by Velopaint have put me consistently in the top ten in this season, yet how the Vuelta could dash all my hopes.

Sub 5 - Weight Update

2011-08-30T13:02:00.003-05:00

After a fabulous start I backed off from mentioning the whole weight thing. Two weeks of sampling the Northwest's craft ale and Voodoo donuts can do that.

Funny thing though, two days in bed with no food and frequent trips to the .....ahem... has inspired me to share my current weight. With less than two weeks to go I'm just under 150lbs!!!!

So If I don't eat between now and then I should be good to go.

Unfortunately the two days in bed may have cost me my last chances to ride hard before the event. I am a 'stay at home Dad' but when 'go to work Mom' has to go to lots of extra work then the calender doesn't leave me much room to go ride. Seriously. The only other Sub 5 detail that is bugging me is whether to hire a car and drive out there at 5am on the Sunday or try staying overnight and riding 10 miles to the start in the morning. Decisions, decisions.

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Etape Cymru

2011-08-30T12:39:00.005-05:00

I am kinda startled by this.

On October the 9th the Etape Cymru will take place on my old stomping grounds.
Starting from the factory my dad worked at, passing the house I lived in and using a variety of all the roads I rode on daily. Everytime I go back I wish I could go ride them again, they are truly magical roads with beautiful countryside. And to think they are considered tough enough for this. The most surprising aspect is that the roads will be closed. It must be a rolling closure but for 2 or 3 hours at a time, some of the roads being used are through villages with pretty much only one road of access for the residents.

Above is a promo image of Geraint Thomas riding up the 'Panorama', below is the Valley of Llangollen and the peak just to the right of his bum is Castell Dinas Bran, one of the rumoured resting places of the Holy Grail or of King Arthur, it's a most romantic ruin. The ride from my house to where he is in the photo used to be 16 minutes all up hill (in the opposite direction to which he's riding), the descent on that road involves evading errant sheep and rocks from the cliffs above and the occassional 'Boy Racer' in a Ford Escort Mk1.

More info on the event here: http://www.etape-cymru.co.uk/

Click on the map to download the route information:

A couple more impressions of Castell Dinas Bran and an interesting site concerning it's history here: http://www.castlewales.com/dinas.html

Artist: Keith Bowen

Artist: Ian Philips

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Iron Bike Fit

2011-08-27T10:30:00.003-05:00

Having been experiencing some knee pain since my riding has increased I figured it would be a good idea to have my bike position etc looked at by a professional, as opposed to mucking about with it myself. Iron Cycles is one of my LBS and seemed the most flexible in regards to doing a bike fit without the aim of replacing components or making loads of adjustments. They were happy to try and fix my 'niggle'

Anyway after lots of chat and measuring and angles and plumb lines and new cleats the ultimate decision was that everything looked great. My fit, position and pedal stroke are fine. If anything my saddle is little far back but it might help if it went a little further back as I don't fancy raising my saddle.

So even though I was expecting to raise, tilt and slide various things, maybe get a new stem etc etc and it felt successful. It gives me confidence in my set-up and that the knee discomfort might be just be that, discomfort not a problem, or age or something. Still I just need to be aware of it for the next week or so.

Thanks to Steve at Iron Cycles for working with me. I haven't had a lot of interaction with the store but it has always been friendly and their mechanic was great when sorting out my wife's bike. They also have a very active road and cyclocross team with a fantastic looking jersey.