Bike riding is fun. Every adult I know who gets back on the bike says how it reminds them of their younger days, and the smiles on their faces are evidence. But one thing that might be potentially more important than any other reason to commute by bike–and often overlooked–is the inherent health benefit.  Bike Shop Hub is by no means the first to touch on this subject. Increasing health through bike commuting and riding is an ongoing campaign which many of our fellow bike commuting advocates have chosen to promote as well.  BikeCommuters.com as well as CommuteByBike.com have written informative articles discussing the health benefits of daily commuting by bike.

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommends that adults in America need 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.  That’s more than 20 minutes a day for moderate exercise and about 10 minutes per day if you prefer the vigorous route.  These figures represent the minimum requirements that the CDC has declared for increased heart and health benefits. The American Heart Association has similar requirements for maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well.

American health associations aren’t the only ones to comment on the benefits of cycling.  The British Heart Association states that cycling at least three hours a week cuts your risk of heart disease in half, compared to those who do not cycle or perform regular exercise.

Now for some, commuting by bike may not be an option, whether the distance to work is  to great to reasonably be covered by bicycle, or the logistics of the commute just don’t lend themselves to a safe riding. But for many, especially those in urban areas, a commute by bike is a couple of pedal strokes away.  For many, the perception of bike commuting is one of  significantly greater time commitment than by auto.  Well the numbers don’t lie. The typical bike commute takes about one third longer than the corresponding auto commute. Not really a substantial time increase, especially for a little exercise and a smile.

So if for no other reason other than your health, consider the impact that bicycle commuting can have on your life, not to mention that you will be saving gas money, reducing your carbon footprint, and you’ll fee better about yourself. And you might be just a little bit cooler–in a social sense at least.

For some reason, however, interest in the Coconino Cycles T Shirts died off.  Perhaps we saturated the market.  Or maybe, ordering Coconino Cycles T shirts was just a good excuse to call up Steve and have a good chat, a service we were not able to include in our T shirts sales.  Either way, sales of the T shirts dwindled.  So with that being said, we decided to clear off some shelf space and inventory dollars by offering the T shirts for free with the purchase of Old Man Mountain Racks.

Actually not just Old Man Mountain racks, we’ll toss in a Free Coconino Cycles T shirt into any order over $99 with “Garro sent me” followed by size and color of T shirt in the comments of the order.

Steve Garro of Coconino Cycles and Channing Hammond of Old Man Mountain are both inspired craftsman plying there trade by hand building some of the best quality cycling equipment around.  Both craftsmen pride themselves in simple and durable designs.  And both craftsmen cater to small and loyal sets of clientele.

Good times Good times were to be had at the 1st annual Flagstaff Hullabaloo. The event featured 4 great bands, kids events, great food and beer and lots of wacky, crazy people having fun. We decided to use it as an opportunity to let Flagstaff know that we had moved to a location in Downtown Flagstaff. We had some BikeShopHub.com T-Shirts done up along with a new banner for the Extrawheel Advert Trailer.

We set up a bunch of bike child trailers, bike cargo trailers, panniers and a bunch of kids stuff. With all of the kids at the event, the iBert Bike Child Safety Seat and our demo Strider Balance Bike were our biggest hits. We also had alot of interest in the Burley Travoy as well as the made in Flagstaff Wandertec BONGO bike trailer.

We also decided to deck out our Xtracycle Radish with an iBert, the new Xtracycle PeaPod and 6 different bike commuter panniers.

Now thru July 19th the Bike Trailer Shop is offering 5% off the purchase of any Extrawheel bicycle trailer and 10% off related accessories combined with the purchase. This includes the Extrawheel Voyager for $199, quite possibly the best off-road bike cargo trailer available and the Extrawheel Advert for $285, bringing pedal power to advertising.

Inspiring the sale, we have received the long awaited Voyager 29er forks. The best off-road trailer just got better.   Tthe Voyager is a nimble trailer with either a full sized 26″ or 700c wheel.  For the 29er crowd, we recommend the 700c wheel which is the same diameter rim as a 29er but with a smaller tire.  Even for mountain biking, a smaller diameter, smooth tire is ideal.

When it comes to off-road bicycle touring the Voyager can’t be beat. The narrow profile coupled with the weight centered around the hub of the trailer wheel allows the Voyager to maneuver tight single-track like no other bike trailer can. Set up a 700c Voyager with a 29er and you wont even notice the bumps. The Voyager is a perfect set-up for Continental Divide or the Trans-Rocky or just for those looking for a trailer that won’t hold you back.

The Extrawheel Voyager was recently reviewed by Bicycle Times, check out what they had to say. The Extrawheel Expert Panniers make a great waterproof addition to the Voyager or mount some Ortlieb Back Roller Classics to the Voyagers universal mounting design. For all you Surly Pugsley riders don’t fret, the Bike Trailer Shop also carries Voyager and Advert forks to Fit your extra wide needs. All Extrawheel trailers will fit just about any rear hub whether is is a threaded axle or a quick release.

There are quite a few different ways for children to get involved in cycling and wearing a children’s bike helmet makes all of these much safer.  Think about all of the ways kids can be involved with cycling.  As passengers on bicycles kids can ride in bike child trailers, trailer-cycles, in bike child seats, on tandem stoker kits and on specialty bikes such as Bakfiets and the Zigo leader with front child passenger areas.  When it comes to the different ways kids ride bike, there are starter devices like, balance bikes, tricycles and bicycles with training wheels.

All of these ways for children to be involved in cycling have their own measure of safety concerns.  A good quality bike child helmet is a must-have for protecting your child’s head however it is that they ride a bike.  Bike child helmets also serve to protect your children in other fast sports like skateboarding and rollerblading.

It is definitely worth the time to choose a bike helmet that your child enjoys wearing.  With all the styles and colors available, your child should certainly be able to pick a helmet out that they like the look of.  And with a range of sizes available, they should be able to find something that comfortably fits their noggin as well.

These days, there are quite a few features  to consider when choosing a bike helmet.  Fortunately, manufacturer like Bell Helmets and Giro Helmets are making great quality products that integrate all of the highest quality features into their helmets.

When choosing a helmet keep in mind the following features: size, fit, ventilation, and straps.  Additional helmet features to be aware of are features such as adjustable fit systems, visors and built in lights.

Have a look at the following bike child helmet manufacturer pages on choosing bike helmets:

• Bell Helmets
• Giro Helmets

One of the most important issues to be aware of in choosing a children’s bike helmet is proper fit.  Size categories for children’s helmets are generally broken down into the groupings of toddler helmets, child’s helmets and youth helmets.  While these names are generally associated with age groups, the most important factor to consider is head size.

Bike Kid Shop uses these sizes to define the following head sizes:

• toddler: 18″ – 19.75″ (46-50 cm)
• child: 19.75″ – 21.5″ (50-54 cm)
• youth: 19.75″ – 22.5″ (50-57 cm)

Other kid’s cycling helmets are of the one-size-fits-all variety sized to fit heads ranging from 18″-22.5″ (46cm-57cm).

Beyond just the size of the helmet, making proper adjustments to the straps and pads can help insure that the helmet is both comfortable and able to provide the maximum safety protection in an accident.  Cincinnati Children’s Organization offers up a useful five step set of instructions for fitting on a bicycle helmet.  And here is another similar set of bike helmet fitting instructions.  Or take a look at the video below.

Wearing bicycle helmets is not only a smart thing to do, in many states it is the law.  Most bike helmet laws are targeted at children.  The maximum age of these helmet laws vary.

Here are several good resources for staying current of current laws regarding bicycle helmets in the US:

• Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute’s Helmet Law Chart
• Current US motorcycle and bicycle helmet laws
• Color coded map by state for bicycle helmet laws

While we are certainly major advocates of children (and everybody else) protecting their head while cycling with a bike helmet, it is worth noting that there are some complex issues to consider as regards to helmet laws.  Many arguments have been proposed that bicycle helmet laws might contribute negatively to overall bicycle safety.  Treehugger has an excellent post discussing the debate over bicycle helmet laws.

Their conclusions do an excellent job of summarizing the debate:

Conclusions:

1. We need better biking infrastructure to separate us from stupid drivers. That is the lesson from the Netherlands, that we need more cyclists and better bike paths more than we need helmets.

2. Don’t confuse helmets with helmet legislation. I will concede the point that helmet legislation may cause a reduction in the number of cyclists, which can be counterproductive if we are trying to promote cycling. I might even go so far as to accuse governments of shifting responsibility to the heads of cyclists and away from the drivers of cars by putting cyclists in such lousy infrastructure with lousy drivers.

3. Helmets work. It is silly to say that they don’t; if you are going to crack your head into something they will protect it. If you don’t live in the Netherlands or Copenhagen or somewhere with lots of cyclists and a decent infrastructure, you should wear one.

4. Compromise? In Ontario, kids have to wear helmets, adults don’t. If you grow up with a helmet on your head or a seatbelt on your lap, you feel naked without it. Eventually, almost everyone will.

In agreeing with the fourth point above, I would say that the argument against helmet laws don’t hold as much weight when it comes to helmet laws specifically geared at children. Children are less able to make sound choices on their own about things such as helmet laws and are much less informed and able to take responsibility for their actions.  In addition children may be at greater risk as they are less developed, physically and mentally, to handle some of the risks of cycling.  I am interested to find out more about how the introduction of cycling laws impact ridership numbers.  Do fewer kids ride bikes when helmet laws are introduced? And how well are the laws obeyed?

Come on Mom, I don't need a helmet

We asked about training wheels, and was told by the owner of the shop that it was not possible to put training wheels on a bike with a rear derailleur. Simply not possible, he claimed, because derailleur gets in the way of the struts, or the brackets, or the other thingy. Anyway, I just accepted it as authoritative truth. Then I set my mind on teaching the kid to ride on two wheels from the get go.

In the past week I’ve learned two things.

First, it may have been for the best that we didn’t use training wheels.

Strider Child's Balance Bike

In fact, I now believe that training wheels are at best a crutch for people who should have learned to ride at a younger age. At worst they are an impediment that keeps young kids from transitioning to full competence on bikes.

Fighting words? Call it the zeal of a convert. Last week I was introduced to balance bikes. I took a close look at a Strider Child Balance Bike, I talked to a sales rep, and I watched a couple of YouTube videos.

That qualifies me as an Internet pseudo-expert. So pity the next person who gives me half a reason to go off half-cocked about how best to teach a child to ride.

I was pretty badass on a tricycle, but I was seven or eight years old when I finally learned to ride a bike. I now have to wonder whether my tricycle and training wheels stunted my progress toward two wheels.

The other thing I learned this week is that, contrary to what was said by Mr. Bike Shop Owner Who Shall Remain Nameless, you absolutely can put training wheels on a bike with a derailleur. I did it.

A derailleur living in harmony with Sunlite Adjustable Training Wheels

I can see how it could be potentially problematic with the struts, but top training wheel engineers in advanced research labs have solved that problem.

We have two kinds of training wheels here, and both worked on the child’s bike that I used for testing. The Sunlite Adjustable Bike Training Wheels had the most clearance from the derailleur. The Wald Bike Training Wheels worked as well, but might have had difficulty working on another bike with a different derailleur or a different bottom dropout design.

So, fine. If you must. Put training wheels on your kid’s bike, if only to prove a certain bike shop owner wrong. Just don’t be surprised when the kid who learned on a Strider leaves your kid in the dust.

Well, like it or not electric bikes are growing in popularity and they look like they are here to stay.  Many traditionalist have raised a questionable eyebrow at the growing popularity of electric bikes, also known as “e-bikes.” But even the most dedicated fixie hipster can’t deny the growing sales numbers world wide of e-bikes.  Holland, a country already well renowned for its use of bikes as a primary transportation method, has seen a dramatic increase in the number of electric bikes on the roads.  In 2009 dutch bike shops saw the sales of e-bikes exceeded those of standard bikes. Is it that Holland is ahead of the curve or that e-bikes have just found a useful niche in Hollands transportation system?

E-bike brake down

In order to understand the future of electric bikes it is important to understand the bikes them selves.  In general e-bikes come in three different styles, or assists as the industry has come to coin. Throttle assist, pedal assist and throttle only are the most common types of e-bikes offered by the major e-bike manufactures.

Throttle assist is the blend of the three styles, it allows its user to engage the motor to add extra power to their pedal power, just engage the  throttle for power without pedaling, or disengage the motor and ride solely on leg power.

Bionix after market electric assist kit

Pedal assist is the most common system found and seems to be becoming the most popular as well.  Many manufactures selling e-bikes in the U.S. are pushing their pedal assist models as their flagship bikes and kits. The pedal assist system only engages the electric motor to assist the rider’s pedal power; there isn’t a throttle-only option.  Most pedal assist kits and bikes offer the user different levels of pedal assist by the electric motor. The pedal assist systems offer a more seamless transition between traditional pedal-only bikes and pure throttle bikes, which is indicative of their popularity.  Users can still feel the rewards of reaching their destination under their own pedal power, with a little added help.

The throttle only system, such as the Volkswagen bike and the e-bike designed by Lexus, fall on the out skirts of actually being able to called a bicycle and start to move closer to the moped side of the spectrum.  Yes, throttle only bikes still have pedals, a bike seat, and handlebars, but can they really be called bikes if there isn’t any rider power needed at all? Or are they just glorified electric mopeds?

Both throttle assist and pedal assist systems are available as aftermarket kits and as pre-assembled bikes with the electric motor and battery system integrated into the bike.  Additionally most system are designed with a removable battery pack for easy charging, and the actual motor is found either in one of the wheel hubs, or attached to the drive or crank system.  For an additional perspective on e-bikes, check out the article written by James Thomas of Bicycle design posted in Commute by bike, E-bike 101.

What does the future hold?

The implications of a growing electric bike market influences every aspect of cycling in America. E-bike options are becoming greater as major bike manufactures such as Trek and Giant enter the E-bike market. And as an article written in Momentum Magazine points outs, from a profit standpoint and a consumer standpoint, there is more money to be made selling lithium ion batteries than there is selling carbon fiber frames. So what are the greater implications of electric bikes on the U.S. cycling culture?

New Giant E-bike

For many, e-bikes offer the ability to ride, commute, tour, or pull a trailer such as a child bicycle trailer or bicycle cargo trailer that otherwise couldn’t for whatever reason.  Not everyone is an athlete and many live in places where the geography doesn’t lend its self to riding a bike easily.  Some traditionalists might claim that using an e-bike is in someway cheating, but in order to cheat one must be in a competition and this is not about competition, its about alternative methods of transportation. I don’t think anyone would argue that one more e-bike on the road is far better then a car or truck.

E-bikes have the potential to open up recreational and utility cycling to a significantly greater population, such as person who dreams of commuting to work, but just doesn’t quite have the fitness, or has too many hills to make it to work on time, or is just someone who prefers not to show up drenched in sweat but would still like to commute by bike to work.  Hauling a bike cargo trailer for personal or occupational cycling needs has been a niche thought to be populated solely by the committed alternative-bike lifestylists–those determined to complete all their subsistence needs using pedal power alone. The idea of hauling groceries home by bike and trailer doesn’t seem so appetizing to many Americans, but introduce a little electric assist and the idea not only seems more palatable but a down right fun experience.  In addition to electric-assist bikes, these days electric assist trailers are starting to surface as well.

step-through electric assist

The same cycling opportunities that e-bikes open up to the commuter and bike utilitarians can also be considered for family cycling as well.  Many parents who would love to take their little ones out for a bike ride but for whatever factors are intimidated by the idea of pulling a bike child trailer. Now they may purchase an e-bike or e-bike kit, removing the daunting physical experience of pulling a trailer from an otherwise sunny family outing.

E-bikes might even have an application for bicycle touring. Some of the charging logistics might need to be figured out if regular power isn’t available, but these days there are many quality compact solar charges available on the market, allowing a bike tourist to travel just a little bit further each day with more of a smile and less exhaustion.

E-Conclusion

I think that we will continue to see more and more people riding e-bikes in this country as time goes on, and why not? E-bikes are certainly no threat to the traditional bicycle. If anything e-bikes may provide the missing like, bridging the gab between the reluctant motorists and the dedicated cyclist.  Will more people ride with the introduction of e-bikes? I think they will.

Trek's Transport Plus

Cycling as recreation will always live strong in the hearts of those who enjoy cycling for recreation and fitness, but the average commuter in this country needs more brothers sharing the roads.  The commute-by-bike and bike utilitarian movements are growing in this country, but by no means at an earth-shattering pace.  Perhaps e-bikes will be the boost that cycling as an alternative transportation method needs in this country.  As the variety of electric bikes grows and the prices become more competitive we will see more and more people using them, which is a win for every cyclist out there, electric or traditional.

Now until June 29th the Bike Trailer Shop is offering a free Wandertec SAX Liner with the purchase of any BOB trailer.  The SAX BOB liner is the perfect accessory for any BOB trailer.  By them selves BOB trailers are some of the best single wheeled bicycle trailers on the market but, their steel mesh floors and open sides can make it tricky to pack smaller or random items securely in the trailer.  Well this is were the SAX liner comes in, made of heavy duty ballistics nylon, the SAX turns your otherwise open BOB trailer into a closed sided storage friendly trailer.  The SAX is great for those looking to haul groceries or other items that may not require the use of a large dry bag to secure items into the trailer.

Normally a $39.99 value, the SAX is free with the Purchase of a BOB Yak Trailer or a BOB Ibex Trailer.  Two of the best single wheeled bike cargo trailers just got better with this great offer.  The SAX are handmade in the U.S.A. right here in Flagstaff, AZ.  It’s that time of year again to pack up the bike and hit the road or dirt for some great outdoor adventures.  Start your adventure off right with the right equipment.  A BOB trailer with the Wandertec SAX and a Wandertec cargo net are the perfect combination for keeping your gear stowed and secure on any bike tour.  Check out some customer stories with their SAX in action, Making a BOB Train and Jeff’s Trailer Reviews, Part 1 BOB Trailers.