EighthInch.com: Newest Fixie Bike Site on the Web

In today’s society we see the population of fixed gear biking spreading all over the World. The sport of cycling was made so popular by Lance Armstrong, that in almost every household today you will come across some sort of bike. Fixie also know as Fixed Gear, is the new revolution to biking. As much of a sport this is, it also has become in a sense a trend, throughout all major cities, as youngsters in their mid 20’s discover new ends to a beginning.

Myself just getting into the sport of fixed gear bikes, is learning a lot. I came across this site called EighthInch.com and thought it would be very nice to share with my cycling community. It has great deals on frame sets, at an affordable price.

Riding Fixie is a statement and shedding your true colors is basically what your bike does for you. It expresses your inner spirit and passion toward life. People go to far extremes building and tuning their fixed gear bikes up, which in a nut shell describe who that person really is. Taste, Color, and Design is how I see the Fixed Gear community growing.

Take a look at EightInch.com and let me know what you think…

The First Bike RV!

On a little website called Fixbert, I came across probably one of the greatest pictures of all time. The concept is just perfect for those bike enthusiast that are indeed trying to go green. You have your living quarters and transportation all in one spot, what more than that. The only flaw that i can take from this picture is that does it detach from the home itself? The only reason I ask this question is because If you worked in the city and this was your means of transportation, I would hate to park this or try to park this vehicle on the street of a busy city……I know, I know this picture is probably just a concept, but just imagine, it could be the start of something new.

Kinethic Kierin Fork perfect for that Bar Spin

It’s been awhile with all the Holidays passing through since the last time I posted, but here I go. The sport/industry of track bikes is rapidly growing among every urban city across the nation. Modifying your bike to fit your own needs, and painting it to go with your fresh new kixx, has only become a regular thought in many city dwellers. Riding down Broad St. one Sunday morning, clear of cars, popping that ultimate wheelie while showing your boy how sick it is to spin your handle bars in mid air, can only be a perfect moment for daily track bikers.

Well, the famous Kinethic group developed a fork, named Kierin Fork, which gives you the ability to spin those bars, and do those nasty moves, down your neighborhood street. Coming in at zero rake and 395mm in length, this fork fits on all Kierin and many other track bikes, and at the same time does not affect the feel while riding. Check out the Link below to find out more on this latest product.

Kinethic Fork

How to Buy a Road Bike

There are some great tips to help you buy a road bike. Of course, you probably have an idea of what you are looking for if you are in the market to make a purchase, however there is always the chance that you don’t know quite what to look for. One thing is for sure and that is that the prices of road bikes range considerably based on the frame material, components, brand, and the like. Depending on your budget you may be able to afford any bike you want or else you might need to pick and choose between certain features to buy the best bike you can in the budget you have available.

Remember, consider where you will be riding your road bike first so you know what to look for. If you want to ride just on pavement then a road bike is the right choice for you. However, if you have other riding desires you might need another type of bike. The recommendations made here are based solely on those looking specifically for a road bike.

Frame

The frame is potentially the most important aspect of your road bike. This is what provides support to the bike and rider as well as how fast you can ride and how well. It is recommended to buy a road bike that is as light as possible. The ultra light road bikes will be the most expensive so you may consider buying a light bike with few features. Then, over time you can add more components like handlebars, pedals, and the like that fit your style of riding. Most likely, if you find a road bike that is an entry level bike it will probably be made of either aluminum or steel. You will find aluminum frames to be stiff and steel to be heavy albeit providing a softer ride. Higher end bikes are most likely to be made of carbon fiber, which is lighter and strong.

If you aren’t sure what type of frame will work best for you simply take a test drive on several different bikes with various frames. This is the best way to figure out the frame that works best for you and your riding style.

Wheels

You will also want to buy a bike with good wheels. It’s important to find a road bike that boasts narrow wheels that have very little contact with the pavement. Similarly, the wheels should have high pressure and be as smooth as possible. You can make some judgment calls when it comes to the wheels, your riding style, and budget, so do a little research and shop around.

Handlebars

When shopping for a road bike you will also want to keep in mind the handlebars on the bike.  Generally, you will want to look for handlebars that are curled under on the bottom so you can hold on, hunch over, and ride as fast as you can with little wind resistance.

There are lots of things you can keep in mind when buying a road bike, but these are some of the more important points you will want to consider.

Top 3 Things to Look for in Bargain Road Bikes

When shopping for a bargain road bike there are several things you should keep in mind. Of course, when you buy a bike that is a bargain you will likely need to make some sacrifices in regards to what you want. However, if you can ensure the bike meets your basic needs then you will have a great road bike at a great price that will serve you well until you can afford something better. The following are the things you should look for in a bargain road bike.

1.) Wheels

The wheels of your road bike are incredibly important because these are what will help you gain speed and ride well. Look for wheels that are smooth, narrow, and high pressure. You want a road bike that has wheels that have very little contact with the pavement so that resistance is minimal. These types of wheels will help you ride on pavement, go fast, and ride as far as you want. That’s what a road bike is all about so make sure you focus on buying a bike that has great wheels.

2.) Frame

You want to buy a road bike with the lightest frame possible. However, generally the lighter the frame the more expensive the bike so you may have to make some trade-off here if you are on a budget. Be sure to look for the bike with the lightest frame that fits your budget, though. This is just as important if not more so than the wheels so keep this in mind. However, if you aren’t climbing much on your road bike then an ultra light frame is not as important as it would be if you were planning on doing so. If you aren’t a competitive rider though a heavier bike may make no difference at all to you. You will find you can’t reach high speeds on flats and downhill like you would with an ultra light road bike, but if you are riding for fun that won’t be a problem for you.

3.) Gears

Another thing you will want to look for is a road bike with good gears. The gears are what allow you to climb hills or ride super fast. Make sure the crank assembly is in good condition and that the gears are in good condition. The multiple gear options allow for great riding so do a close review of the gears on the road bike before you buy it.

The best advice is to search for a bike with the lightest frame possible and then gradually change out the components you don’t care for. This is a great way to slowly upgrade your bike as your budget allows and you will find that you will be happier over the long haul with your road bike.

Track Bike Basics

Bicycles that are racing optimized are called track bicycles or track bikes. These bikes are specialized for racing on an outdoor track, sometimes referred to as a velodrome. There is not a freewheel or brakes on a track bike and there is only one gear. The tires on these bicycles have high pressure and are very thin. This is to lower rolling resistance. Many racers choose to outfit their track bike with tubular tires.

The track bike has a frame that is used only for that particular type of racing and it is not as important to be light as it is to be rigid. Track bikes need to be as rigid as they possibly can whereas general racing bikes should be lighter and more aerodynamic.

When it comes to rules that govern track bikes it is important to keep in mind that the dimensions and design of track bikes are regulated by the International Cycling Union. This body also ensures that the tubes used to make the bike frame meet the guidelines set for diameter as well as shape.

Differences from Other Bikes:

Many people are unaware of how track bikes are different from other bikes. Basically, a track bike has less fork rake than a road bike as well as a seat tube that is steeper. This is to create a better position for the rider to make him more aerodynamic. Additionally, the bottom bracket is raised so the pedals won’t hit the track that is steeply angled. Finally, the head tube of a track bike is steeper to improve steering.
Track bikes are frequently made from carbon fiber, steel, titanium, or aluminum. Professionals most frequently ride track bikes that are made of carbon fiber. The frame boasts a rear hub spacing of 120mm. Chain tension adjustment is assisted by  backwards facing track ends.

Gears:

Track bicycles have one very important part and that is the great. The size is what matters most and when the gear is lower than allows the track bike to accelerate faster. However, sustaining speed is easier with a bigger gear. As a result, racers must determine what’s most important to them and the type of race they will be involved in. Trials, pursuits, and timed races generally require track bicycles with bigger gears. A compromise that most track cyclists practice is pedaling as fast as possible.

These are just a few of the basics points that any track cyclist should know and understand before beginning to race or take part in this sport. There is a lot to learn and track bikes are different than road bikes. Knowing the differences and understanding how to use them to your advantage in a race will help you become a great track cyclist.

Design your Own Bike

Today, I came across this website that will make your work days go by a little faster. You now have the power to choose from different size frames, colors, chains, handlebars, bar pads, etc. and design your own bike from scratch. I think I might have spent about 20 minutes on it before I realized I was at work and not at home on my own computer. It became so real, but at the same time fantasy picking different color options, having one bright pink wheel with a blue tire and the other wheel being orange with a green tire. You have the ability to combine your own spice of taste on paper in front of you by just clicking your mouse. Its fun, cool, and really life like, try it out and let me know what you think.

So the next time the office is becoming a bit frustrating, click on this link, and take a little break. But right before you come back to reality make sure to bookmark the link.

2009 Road Bike Product releases

So here it is the 2009 NEW Model line up from all of the top brands in the industry. If you have been non-stop perusing the internet, reading up on your daily blogs, continuously stopping by your local shops, well the time has come for you to relax. Today, BikeRadar.com released the “2009 Road Bike Product Round-up” with some amazing looking machines.  Click on this link and you’ll be directed to a more in depth guide on your favorite brands from Giant, Avanti, to Bianchi. Take a look, maybe you’ll find your new Holiday gift. I know I might have.

Polo…?

Ever wonder what it would feel like playing the game of polo from the saddle of a bicycle, me too. Check out this link from First Flight Bikes. Its a polo bike from the 70’s with a little “mojo” built into it. Powered by a single speed freewheel, this bad boy gives you the ability to swing the mallet due to the handlebars being shaved down in size.

I never even thought to myself that this would be an option, to replace the standard horse. But how can anyone doubt the personalities of the great Europeans. Its just amazes me that the development of the wheel can become such a stepping stone to society.

Giant Aeryn 2

Not too different from a regular Road Bike build, in material use, the new ‘09 Aeryn 2 offers great aerodynamics for the female rider. Its seen across the country that in todays society the sport of Triatholon is growing with more and more famale racers. Very light to touch, the Aeryn 2 is complete with and ALuminum frameset and carbon forks. Whats greater than an entry level bike for this type of sport at $1400. Click here for more.

Giant has been one of the “top dawgs” in this industry for awhile some type with superb engineering in mastering the ultimate fit for the female rider.

Features:

• 9 speed Shimano Tiagra components
• Alloy Handlebar, stem and Vision TriMax clip-ons
• HIGH profile 42mm Aero Rims, Formula Sealed hubs/SAPIM race spokes, wheelset.

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