Nice photos, Wookie! If that doesn't give folks downlowglowenvy, they
must be true nightcrawlers! I just photgraphed myself unpacking my
Townie Xtra at the airport and riding off with my luggage. Will be
posting pronto to the blog.
peace and grease
- kipchoge
> From: "wookiebonic" <scroisant@...>
> Subject: New Photo Album
>
> Hey there again rootrads,
> I figured out how to post photos (lol) and created a new photo album
> at the garden.
>
> Check em out! I thought it would be cool to look at other xtracycles,
> pictures of crazy loads, or whatever.
> Have fun out there!
>
> Peace,
>
> steve
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ________________________________________________________________________
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
>
> You're getting this message because you signed up to be an Xtracycle roots
> radical.
>
> To Post a message, send it to: rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com
>
>
> ride to believe.
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
>
>
>
>
--
Kipchoge Spencer
Xtracycle
Kipchoge and the Ginger Ninjas
29085 Highway 49
North San Juan CA 95960
530/292-1401
www.xtracycle.com
www.gingerninjas.com
www.pleasantrevolution.net
We are thinking of purchasing one and would love to ride one before
investing. Anyone willing to meet up and test ride theirs? Or oes
anyone know of a bike shop that sells them? We would be especially
grateful if you have a peapod seat our son could try out as well.
Thanks!
Irene & Kevin
I'm not too close to MA (central ILlinois :-)) but my bike was not
changed overmuch with the addition. I'd read the commentaries about
it handling well, but I couldn't tell if people were saying it handled
well compared to, say, a loaded trailer or panniers & racks stacked to
the sky.
The only time the "handling" is a challenge is getting it back &
forth in the garage, and getting it into a car (I got a flat on a
group ride, and didn't have my spare tube, and everybody else had
Presta valve tires... and I wasn't *really* looking forward to 12 more
miles into the 25 mph wind.)
I'm pretty klutzy - have to think about *everything* to learn how
to do it - but (so far anyway!) the transition to longbike has been
seamless. Maybe it's those yoga classes, but I can sort of "feel"
that it's longer, but it doesn't make the front wobble or anything.
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "Irene" <luttsfly@...> wrote:
>
> We are thinking of purchasing one and would love to ride one before
> investing. Anyone willing to meet up and test ride theirs? Or oes
> anyone know of a bike shop that sells them? We would be especially
> grateful if you have a peapod seat our son could try out as well.
>
> Thanks!
>
> Irene & Kevin
>
I'm determined to recycle cans and win time trials until I've got
enough for the BLENDER.
Soon as we can find the batteries for the camera, I'll take a few
shots :-) Somehow (for a change!) I got missed by the media at the
Illini Chill, so Central Illinois didn't see the X with the skunk and
walrus (stuffed) peeking out from the backsides on the 22-mile ride
through the blustery prairie. The riders did, though... there might be
a fourth and fifth and sixth X in Champoo-Banana before long..
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "stephan croisant"
<scroisant@...> wrote:
>
> Hey Roots Radicals!
> Ive been using my xtracycle for about two years here in Chicago.
> The perfect winter bike! Ive recently added the "down low glow" light
> system.
> It turns alot of heads which is alot better than feeling invisible
at night!
>
> Lately, I've been using it for shopping and commuting. It works
great!
> But when I get some extra cash I want design a crazy sound system for
> critical mass,entertaining the locals etc.
>
> Ive been really oogling the stokemonkey lately. Man,I want one
of those!
> Does any body out there in Rootsradical land have any experience
with them?
>
> I attached a picture of me and my xtra,not sure if I did it right?!?
> Im new to computers.
> How do I send a pic to a group?
>
> Anybody else have pictures of their machine?
>
> -steve in chicago
> signing out
>
> _________________________________________________________________
> FREE pop-up blocking with the new MSN Toolbar – get it now!
> http://toolbar.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200415ave/direct/01/
>
This one goes out to Steve and all the others who are interested in
building a Soul Cycle music system for their Xtracycle.
I wanted to let you know that Fossil Fool has two new audio products
that can help you rock out on your next social ride. I hope folks
don't mind me making a somewhat commercial announcement here on the
RootsRadicals forum, but I'm hoping for some feedback from you all
on these products. I haven't put either of these up on our web site
or Xtracycle.com yet.
Product number 1 is the new Soul Cycle "In The Pocket" head unit. It
goes for $449, and it is the easiest, cleanest, fastest way to go
cruising with music on an Xtracycle. The product is a self-
contained, lightweight and small (about 2 pounds and similar in size
to a stack of 4 CD jewel boxes), rechargeable, quick-release
detachable, hand-made dovetailed wooden head unit. It powers a pair
of household bookshelf speakers that you supply. You can also build
a custom enclosure for 6x9 car-audio speakers if you want something
that fits clamps to your snap deck, and has better volume. The
enclosed NiMH battery powers the amplifier for 5-10 hours depending
on your choice of speakers and how loud you listen. It can be used
and recharged hundreds of times and is serviceable. The enclosed amp
offers a surprisingly clean and full stereo sound that is loud
enough for a small cluster to enjoy as they ride around your bike.
For solo cruises, the sound will truly put you `in the pocket' with
your favorite music. Despite the clean sound, this system is
somewhat understated and is not really suitable for entertaining a
whole critical mass ride. This Soul Cycle can also be used as a nice
bedroom audio system.
If you're craving more power and better bass response, option 2 is
to purchase a Soul Cycle wiring harness and parts list for $245. The
wiring harness comes with a quick-release, wooden, handlebar-mounted
control center with switches pre-installed, ready to control the
sound, lights, and bass on your system. There's a spot there for
your mp3 player. Leading from the control center are nicely dressed
wires (about a 6' stretch, long enough to reach your FreeLoaders)
connecting to the battery, amp, speakers, and subwoofer, which
you'll carry on the rear of the bike. The wires come complete with
correct terminals, so that you can connect your amplifier and
battery without soldering.
This product was conceived to allow you to enjoy all the cool parts
of building a soul cycle (designing and making the speaker box,
choosing and installing the speakers, painting the soul cycle,
tricking it out with lighting effects), while removing the
frustrating and time-consuming parts – wiring and research. You may
be handy with a soldering iron, but regular `hobby' type soldering
is simply not adequate for a bicycle-based sound-system. On a
bicycle, the vibrations from the road and the strain of taking your
system on and off the bike will cause regular solder joints to fail
within days or weeks. Plus, it is a difficult logic challenge to
design a wiring system that allows you to control the music from
your handlebars, and still be able to separate the various
components (amp, battery, subwoofer, control center) so that you can
carry them individually, not as one big rat's nest. Strain relief
and wire management are two of the critical aspects of building a
soul cycle, and they require learning from experience. All the
connectors of the Fossil Fool wiring harness are properly strain-
reliefed, which will save you countless hours of troubleshooting.
The wiring harness also comes with a parts list that will save you
lots of research time and money. It will have links to specific web
sites and products where you can find good deals on the battery,
amp, speakers, subwoofer, etc. I will include size recommendations
on the battery and speakers. You can further tweak the
recommendations to achieve a certain sound. With the wiring harness
and the parts list, you can still say 'I built it' but you will be
cutting out about 1-2 weeks of hard work on your Soul Cycle.
I've been interested in finding the right way to spread the
knowledge about Soul Cycling so that it brings pleasure to people
but still retains its magic. I started writing a book about bicycle
audio, but got too busy to continue. I think the wiring harness is a
great way to save people time on building their own Soul Cycles.
Would a book be more appealing? I've also seen web sites like
Instructables where people share this type of how-to knowledge for
free. I find that system intriguing, but to be honest, the quality
of the work on that site, while very creative, doesn't have polish
and finish that are so important to making a good soul cycle.
Yours,
Paul Freedman
Fossil Fool
1-888-DLG-BIKE
1-888-354-2453
I second the Gore-Tex. I live a measely 2 miles away, so I wear my
(work) steel toes as they're both waterproof and wicking. The soles
are stiffer than sneakers, too. Wool socks are a must if it gets truly
cold. I've got a fender on the back, but nothing on the front as there
are no fender mounts. Still debating half-fender vs. new fork. I've
got a Bright, BRIGHT headlight - Busch & Müller Ixon 1 watt LED (14
Lumen for 6 hours). http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/b&m.asp
--Gauk, akiragauk@...
On 6 Feb 2006 19:56:34 -0000, rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com
<rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> There are 3 messages in this issue.
>
> Topics in this digest:
>
> 1. Re: Howdy from Chicago
> From: TheJonesgal@...
> 2. Rain Gear ( was Re: Howdy from Chicago)
> From: Jeff Youngstrom <jeffy@...>
> 3. Re: Digest Number 53
> From: Kipchoge Spencer <kipchoge@...>
>
>
> ________________________________________________________________________
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2006 21:51:23 EST
> From: TheJonesgal@...
> Subject: Re: Howdy from Chicago
>
>
> Howdy from Seattle (area),
> I too added the down low glow lights and love them. I feel safer riding home
> from work in the dark.
> Unfortunately, I've been a wimp in our very wet winter and haven't been
> riding much at all. I do most of my riding to work and home again when I'm not
> out for fun.
> Maybe if you all tell me how you handle the rain - what kind of gear you
> wear - and stuff like that, you'll spur me on!
>
> Thanks, Gerry
>
> PS the sun came out and I rode my bike today!
> It's not looking so good for the Sea Hawks! 3 minutes to go, not a pretty
> picture.
>
>
>
> [This message contained attachments]
>
>
>
> ________________________________________________________________________
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
> Message: 2
> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2006 00:40:54 -0800
> From: Jeff Youngstrom <jeffy@...>
> Subject: Rain Gear ( was Re: Howdy from Chicago)
>
> Hi Gerry,
>
> I've arranged my life so that my commute is only about three miles
> each way which helps since I can ride in my work clothes (computer
> geek). I use a beat up old non-cycle-specific Marmot gore-tex shell
> parka. It's got a hood which I *hate* for riding (just gets in the
> way), but it's still water tight and I can't bring my cheap self to
> upgrade yet. For pants I'm using some gore-tex cycling-specific pants
> that I got on clearance from Nashbar or Performance for about $100.
> Worth every penny. I used to use some pants made for hunters that had
> big legs and were a right pain. For feet I'm still in toe clips and
> use my regular shoes to ride. None of them are particularly water
> repellent so I've just been wearing wool socks and changing my shoes
> when I get to work if they get too wet.
>
> Fenders, of course. Keep meaning to add a mud flap on my front one
> since that spray seems to be the principal way my feet are getting wet
> these days.
>
> Not sure any of this is going to help you any. Kinda just have to set
> your mind to it and decide not to mind getting a little wet. I like to
> point out to people that they're not water soluble. ;-)
>
> Wasn't it a beautiful day?
>
> jeffy in Issaquah, WA
> my blog: http://tomecat.com/madtimes/
> pics of my bike: http://flickr.com/photos/jeffyoungstrom/sets/515126/
What sort of tripped me into the riding in the rain category was
getting caught in it a time or two and realizing that, just like
riding in the cold, it really wasn't miserable (like walking when
you're cold and wet would be).
I have a pair of expensive wicking tights from Champaign Surplus
that really do pull water out, so if I've got those on under sweats
the rain doesn't get through to the skin. Two layers and then two
jackets means the same thing applies to the top layer.
Visibility can be an issue - fortunately I had amber sunglasses the
one time I got caught in a gullywasher, and it wasn't coming *at* me.
Let's face it, if it might spawn a tornado, I shouldn't be out in it.
THose pass in a few minutes, usually.
So far I haven't ridden in a steady downpour except that once. (I
haven't had to; the weather likes me. COuldn't be the geography
causing storms to break up and go around Champaign-Urbana; must be me!)
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, TheJonesgal@... wrote:
>
>
> Howdy from Seattle (area),
> I too added the down low glow lights and love them. I feel safer
riding home
> from work in the dark.
> Unfortunately, I've been a wimp in our very wet winter and haven't
been
> riding much at all. I do most of my riding to work and home again
when I'm not
> out for fun.
> Maybe if you all tell me how you handle the rain - what kind of gear
you
> wear - and stuff like that, you'll spur me on!
>
> Thanks, Gerry
>
> PS the sun came out and I rode my bike today!
> It's not looking so good for the Sea Hawks! 3 minutes to go, not a
pretty
> picture.
>
Hey 'fool,
I've been waiting for you to do somthing like this!
I like your work. But the bamboo soulcycle is a little bit out of my
price range.
I am familiar with basic audio electronics work, but it will be
cool to have a good starting point and an actual parts list.
I am very interested in product#2.
You should post some pitures of your new products, man.
I can hardly wait to weave through gridlock with LOUD-ASS dub music
thumping from my xtra.
keep us posted!
peace,
steve in chicago
Ive been using lots of wool clothing this winter. The best place to
find this stuff around here seems to be THRIFT STORES. $4.00
sweaters! Great if you're not made of money. I am on the hunt for the
perfect weatherproof riding jacket. I know Carradice makes a nice one and
Todd,the creator of the the Stokemonkey,has a blog entry with some
nice looking kit. I've dumped a few pictures in the photo section.
If you are reading this and have a camera, how 'bout getting creative
and sharing some pictures?!?
peace
-steve in chicago
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, Gauk <akiragauk@...> wrote:
>
> I second the Gore-Tex. I live a measely 2 miles away, so I wear my
> (work) steel toes as they're both waterproof and wicking. The soles
> are stiffer than sneakers, too. Wool socks are a must if it gets truly
> cold. I've got a fender on the back, but nothing on the front as there
> are no fender mounts. Still debating half-fender vs. new fork. I've
> got a Bright, BRIGHT headlight - Busch & Müller Ixon 1 watt LED (14
> Lumen for 6 hours). http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/b&m.asp
> --Gauk, akiragauk@...
>
> On 6 Feb 2006 19:56:34 -0000, rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com
> <rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com> wrote:
> > There are 3 messages in this issue.
> >
> > Topics in this digest:
> >
> > 1. Re: Howdy from Chicago
> > From: TheJonesgal@...
> > 2. Rain Gear ( was Re: Howdy from Chicago)
> > From: Jeff Youngstrom <jeffy@...>
> > 3. Re: Digest Number 53
> > From: Kipchoge Spencer <kipchoge@...>
> >
> >
> >
________________________________________________________________________
> >
________________________________________________________________________
> >
> > Message: 1
> > Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2006 21:51:23 EST
> > From: TheJonesgal@...
> > Subject: Re: Howdy from Chicago
> >
> >
> > Howdy from Seattle (area),
> > I too added the down low glow lights and love them. I feel safer
riding home
> > from work in the dark.
> > Unfortunately, I've been a wimp in our very wet winter and haven't
been
> > riding much at all. I do most of my riding to work and home again
when I'm not
> > out for fun.
> > Maybe if you all tell me how you handle the rain - what kind of
gear you
> > wear - and stuff like that, you'll spur me on!
> >
> > Thanks, Gerry
> >
> > PS the sun came out and I rode my bike today!
> > It's not looking so good for the Sea Hawks! 3 minutes to go, not a
pretty
> > picture.
> >
> >
> >
> > [This message contained attachments]
> >
> >
> >
> >
________________________________________________________________________
> >
________________________________________________________________________
> >
> > Message: 2
> > Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2006 00:40:54 -0800
> > From: Jeff Youngstrom <jeffy@...>
> > Subject: Rain Gear ( was Re: Howdy from Chicago)
> >
> > Hi Gerry,
> >
> > I've arranged my life so that my commute is only about three miles
> > each way which helps since I can ride in my work clothes (computer
> > geek). I use a beat up old non-cycle-specific Marmot gore-tex shell
> > parka. It's got a hood which I *hate* for riding (just gets in the
> > way), but it's still water tight and I can't bring my cheap self to
> > upgrade yet. For pants I'm using some gore-tex cycling-specific pants
> > that I got on clearance from Nashbar or Performance for about $100.
> > Worth every penny. I used to use some pants made for hunters that had
> > big legs and were a right pain. For feet I'm still in toe clips and
> > use my regular shoes to ride. None of them are particularly water
> > repellent so I've just been wearing wool socks and changing my shoes
> > when I get to work if they get too wet.
> >
> > Fenders, of course. Keep meaning to add a mud flap on my front one
> > since that spray seems to be the principal way my feet are getting wet
> > these days.
> >
> > Not sure any of this is going to help you any. Kinda just have to set
> > your mind to it and decide not to mind getting a little wet. I like to
> > point out to people that they're not water soluble. ;-)
> >
> > Wasn't it a beautiful day?
> >
> > jeffy in Issaquah, WA
> > my blog: http://tomecat.com/madtimes/
> > pics of my bike: http://flickr.com/photos/jeffyoungstrom/sets/515126/
>
I've got a suspension fork with no fender mounts too (it does have a
screw at the arch). I've had good luck with just using a couple of
zip-ties to attach the fender stays. Front fender makes a HUGE
difference in the wet.
On 2/7/06, Gauk <akiragauk@...> wrote:
> I second the Gore-Tex. I live a measely 2 miles away, so I wear my
> (work) steel toes as they're both waterproof and wicking. The soles
> are stiffer than sneakers, too. Wool socks are a must if it gets truly
> cold. I've got a fender on the back, but nothing on the front as there
> are no fender mounts. Still debating half-fender vs. new fork. I've
> got a Bright, BRIGHT headlight - Busch & Müller Ixon 1 watt LED (14
> Lumen for 6 hours). http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/b&m.asp
> --Gauk, akiragauk@...
After ~10 years of riding in Gore-Tex jacket and pants from Nashbar/Saucony,
I've decided that Gore-Tex is not the preferred material for rain/snow riding
for me. It's not waterproof by any stretch of the imagination. My shoulders get
wet after ½ hour in a steady rain. It is a good windbreaker, holding up in temps
well below 0F. The pants also begin to soak through in the thighs after ½ hour.
It's fairly stiff compared to some other fabrics. It requires special
washing--powder only, no softener, and you will be asked to wash the clothes 3
times in succession if you have a problem with its waterproof-ness. I've
recently purchased a Burley Rain Rider jacket. More supple material, but it's
not been subjected to harsh conditions yet. It has provided good windbreaker
service.
Mike
X/SM rider in Madison, WI
(Xtracycle/Stokemonkey)
________________________________________
From: rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com [mailto:rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of TheJonesgal@...
Sent: Tuesday, February 07, 2006 1:58 PM
To: rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [rootsradicals] Re: Rain Gear ( was Re: Howdy from Chicago)
Thanks for the headlight info and seconding the goretex.
I really do need a brighter light so I'll look for one.
Gerry
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Basic windbreakers - I've got two that are lined and one or two that
are just nylon, so usually I wear a lined one under an unlined one.
One of 'em has lots of reflective stuff on the sleeves and it's bright
yellow... I do rather like being visible.
And basically any of the stuff people wear skiing works. (The
snowmobiling suit I got when I rode a motorcycle doesn't, though -
can't bend my knees enough.)
They call me the 'weather goddess' :-)
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, TheJonesgal@... wrote:
>
> What kind of jackets do you wear or does it matter?
>
> The tights sound like a good idea too. I'll check on them.
>
> I bet the people in your area are grateful that you bike and keep
the huge
> rains away. :)
>
Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB FreeRadical and wondered if anyone has
used the
Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on the smallish side and his
feet probably
wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also wondered if anyone's considered
making an
add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something that would attach to the
seatpost,
extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a smallish handlebar to allow
for a
secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid holding on and feeling pretty
secure,
versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently rides a trail-a-bike when I take
him to
Kindergarten.
I now live about a mile from my work and commute by bike most days, even through
our
Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job in August of '05, I drove at
least an
hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to be done with car commuting.
Thanks a bunch,
Phil
I have an Xtracycle in Cambridge, but it has the Stokemonkey mod, which you will find too different to give you a good sense of the XC, or convince you that you need both.
I have no kids, and hence no peapod. Sorry.
Let me know, and we can arrange a test if the roads stay dry.
Andrew
On Feb 6, 2006, at 3:06 PM, Irene wrote:
We are thinking of purchasing one and would love to ride one before investing. Anyone willing to meet up and test ride theirs? Or oes anyone know of a bike shop that sells them? We would be especially grateful if you have a peapod seat our son could try out as well.
Thanks!
Irene & Kevin
You're getting this message because you signed up to be an Xtracycle roots radical.
Phil,
I've got the Footsies on my Xtracycle, but my six year daughter
(40lbs) cannot reach them yet so she rides in a PeaPod
(http://www.xtracycle.com/product_info.php?cPath=1&products_id=73). I
figure when she's too big for the PeaPod she'll be able to reach the
Footsies.
As for the handlebar attachment, there are several good examples in
the Xtracycle galleries. Here's one for example:
http://xtracycle.com/gallery/view_photo.php?set_albumName=public&id=stoker_bar_w\
ith_grips
I really need to add one of these to my Xtracycle.
I love taking my daughter to kindergarten on the Xtracycle. We both
laugh at her classmates stuck in traffic in their SUVs.
Tom Ahearn
West Seattle
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "Phil Good-Elliott"
<poppamando@...> wrote:
>
> Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB FreeRadical and wondered
if anyone has used the
> Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on the smallish side
and his feet probably
> wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also wondered if anyone's
considered making an
> add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something that would attach
to the seatpost,
> extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a smallish handlebar
to allow for a
> secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid holding on and
feeling pretty secure,
> versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently rides a trail-a-bike
when I take him to
> Kindergarten.
>
> I now live about a mile from my work and commute by bike most days,
even through our
> Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job in August of '05,
I drove at least an
> hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to be done with car
commuting.
>
> Thanks a bunch,
> Phil
>
Hello all...I am Christopher Palmer. I'm a sculptor, arts educator, and
100 other things in the SF Bay Area. I run a bike repair at Burning Man -
http://www.borrachosybicicletas.org - and I co-run a free monthly bike
clinic in Berkeley.
I will be writing more soon, but I wanted to say hi, and tell folks how
much I love my Xtra. I have installed some custom RGB LED light bars on
the bottom, that rotate thru the entire rainbow slowly. I built an
aluminum toolbox that fits under the snapdeck in front. It holds tools and
spares, and a gel cell for the lighting. I installed a switch and charging
jack on it, and the front of it holds a bottle cage.
I have footsies for my daughter, and I used a threadless stem, and a piece
of 1" EMT for her handlebar.
I'll take pix of it all soon.
see ya.
CTP
Someone on the XC forum said it made a god grip, and it folds away when not in use. I was wondering if it would be sturdy enough for when I'm going 25mph or not, however. . .
Andrew
On Feb 7, 2006, at 7:23 PM, Phil Good-Elliott wrote:
Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB FreeRadical and wondered if anyone has used the Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on the smallish side and his feet probably wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also wondered if anyone's considered making an add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something that would attach to the seatpost, extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a smallish handlebar to allow for a secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid holding on and feeling pretty secure, versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently rides a trail-a-bike when I take him to Kindergarten.
I now live about a mile from my work and commute by bike most days, even through our Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job in August of '05, I drove at least an hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to be done with car commuting.
Thanks a bunch, Phil
You're getting this message because you signed up to be an Xtracycle roots radical.
I have a Swing Grip, Andrew, but I don't feel its designed to serve as a handlebar for anyone. I suppose it would fit on a seat post, but it hasn't felt to me to be sturdy enough for that kind of resistance.
- Ben
On 8 Feb 2006, at 16:58, Andrew Janjigian wrote:
I have a clamp on threadless stem and a pair of grips on the seatpost of my XC/SM, but I was thinking about replacing it with one of these:
Someone on the XC forum said it made a god grip, and it folds away when not in use. I was wondering if it would be sturdy enough for when I'm going 25mph or not, however. . .
Andrew
On Feb 7, 2006, at 7:23 PM, Phil Good-Elliott wrote:
Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB FreeRadical and wondered if anyone has used the Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on the smallish side and his feet probably wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also wondered if anyone's considered making an add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something that would attach to the seatpost, extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a smallish handlebar to allow for a secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid holding on and feeling pretty secure, versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently rides a trail-a-bike when I take him to Kindergarten.
I now live about a mile from my work and commute by bike most days, even through our Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job in August of '05, I drove at least an hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to be done with car commuting.
Thanks a bunch, Phil
You're getting this message because you signed up to be an Xtracycle roots radical.
Tom, thanks for the reasonable suggestions, though we're on a tight budget, so
I'm not
sure the PeaPod is realistic for us. The "stoker bar" looks good, however. Any
ideas about
where to find one of those?
Andrew, thanks for your suggestion, but I'm with Ben - it looks dangerous to use
for a
passenger grip.
-Phil
(if you're ever in Goshen, IN, check out our contra dancing at
http://www.godancing.org/)
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "Tom Ahearn" <tahearn@...> wrote:
>
> Phil,
>
> I've got the Footsies on my Xtracycle, but my six year daughter
> (40lbs) cannot reach them yet so she rides in a PeaPod
> (http://www.xtracycle.com/product_info.php?cPath=1&products_id=73). I
> figure when she's too big for the PeaPod she'll be able to reach the
> Footsies.
>
> As for the handlebar attachment, there are several good examples in
> the Xtracycle galleries. Here's one for example:
> http://xtracycle.com/gallery/view_photo.php?
set_albumName=public&id=stoker_bar_with_grips
> I really need to add one of these to my Xtracycle.
>
> I love taking my daughter to kindergarten on the Xtracycle. We both
> laugh at her classmates stuck in traffic in their SUVs.
>
> Tom Ahearn
> West Seattle
>
>
> --- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "Phil Good-Elliott"
> <poppamando@> wrote:
> >
> > Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB FreeRadical and wondered
> if anyone has used the
> > Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on the smallish side
> and his feet probably
> > wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also wondered if anyone's
> considered making an
> > add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something that would attach
> to the seatpost,
> > extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a smallish handlebar
> to allow for a
> > secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid holding on and
> feeling pretty secure,
> > versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently rides a trail-a-bike
> when I take him to
> > Kindergarten.
> >
> > I now live about a mile from my work and commute by bike most days,
> even through our
> > Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job in August of '05,
> I drove at least an
> > hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to be done with car
> commuting.
> >
> > Thanks a bunch,
> > Phil
> >
>
That was my worry. I'll be sticking with my grip as is. Thanks for the review.
aj
On Feb 8, 2006, at 9:29 PM, Ben Rosenthal wrote:
I have a Swing Grip, Andrew, but I don't feel its designed to serve as a handlebar for anyone. I suppose it would fit on a seat post, but it hasn't felt to me to be sturdy enough for that kind of resistance.
- Ben
On 8 Feb 2006, at 16:58, Andrew Janjigian wrote:
I have a clamp on threadless stem and a pair of grips on the seatpost of my XC/SM, but I was thinking about replacing it with one of these:
Someone on the XC forum said it made a god grip, and it folds away when not in use. I was wondering if it would be sturdy enough for when I'm going 25mph or not, however. . .
Andrew
On Feb 7, 2006, at 7:23 PM, Phil Good-Elliott wrote:
Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB FreeRadical and wondered if anyone has used the Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on the smallish side and his feet probably wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also wondered if anyone's considered making an add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something that would attach to the seatpost, extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a smallish handlebar to allow for a secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid holding on and feeling pretty secure, versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently rides a trail-a-bike when I take him to Kindergarten.
I now live about a mile from my work and commute by bike most days, even through our Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job in August of '05, I drove at least an hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to be done with car commuting.
Thanks a bunch, Phil
You're getting this message because you signed up to be an Xtracycle roots radical.
Phil,
Here are a couple of shots to look at. A tandem stoker
stem is probably going to be your best bet.
http://xtracycle.com/gallery/view_album.php?set_albumName=public&page=5
Drew
San Diego
--- Phil Good-Elliott <poppamando@...> wrote:
> Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB
> FreeRadical and wondered if anyone has used the
> Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on
> the smallish side and his feet probably
> wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also
> wondered if anyone's considered making an
> add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something
> that would attach to the seatpost,
> extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a
> smallish handlebar to allow for a
> secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid
> holding on and feeling pretty secure,
> versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently
> rides a trail-a-bike when I take him to
> Kindergarten.
>
> I now live about a mile from my work and commute by
> bike most days, even through our
> Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job
> in August of '05, I drove at least an
> hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to
> be done with car commuting.
>
> Thanks a bunch,
> Phil
>
>
>
>
>
__________________________________________________
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I'd be thrilled if Xtracycle would produce a handlebar unit for
footsies standers and deck sitters. Sure, I enjoy when friends hold
onto me (better than the deck or the seat post), but for smoother
riding, sometimes I stand up, and I have to be sure not to when a
rider needs me for his/her own balance. I would certainly be a first
buyer of such a product!
- Ben
On 9 Feb 2006, at 15:21, N A wrote:
> Phil,
> Here are a couple of shots to look at. A tandem stoker
> stem is probably going to be your best bet.
>
> http://xtracycle.com/gallery/view_album.php?
> set_albumName=public&page=5
>
> Drew
> San Diego
Drew, thanks much. That's exactly what I was thinking of.
-Phil
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, N A <shringara2@...> wrote:
>
> Phil,
> Here are a couple of shots to look at. A tandem stoker
> stem is probably going to be your best bet.
>
> http://xtracycle.com/gallery/view_album.php?set_albumName=public&page=5
>
> Drew
> San Diego
>
>
> --- Phil Good-Elliott <poppamando@...> wrote:
>
> > Hello, all. I'm considering buying an SUB
> > FreeRadical and wondered if anyone has used the
> > Footsie add-ons. I have a 6 y/o son who's a bit on
> > the smallish side and his feet probably
> > wouldn't reach down to the Footsies. I've also
> > wondered if anyone's considered making an
> > add-on handlebar attachment. I could see something
> > that would attach to the seatpost,
> > extend back and up from the seatpost and end in a
> > smallish handlebar to allow for a
> > secure grip for the passenger. I could see my kid
> > holding on and feeling pretty secure,
> > versus grabbing onto the snapdeck. He currently
> > rides a trail-a-bike when I take him to
> > Kindergarten.
> >
> > I now live about a mile from my work and commute by
> > bike most days, even through our
> > Northern Indiana winters. Before taking my new job
> > in August of '05, I drove at least an
> > hour's round trip for 14 years. I'm really ready to
> > be done with car commuting.
> >
> > Thanks a bunch,
> > Phil
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
> __________________________________________________
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
> http://mail.yahoo.com
>
I couldn't help but notice that the chainguard on my Schwinn looks
like it would work just fine even if there were an extra mess of chain
attached to it. So unless your skirts are really full (I think - I'm
not good at picturing things!) I think any regular chain guard could
still work.
I am really liking my bike now. I was having second thoughts on
spending that much money but now that it has happened, I really have
taken the bike places already that I'd have hopped into the car for,
because I wasn't going to have to figure out how to manage that dish
of food. THey're also just plain bigger than they look in the
pictures - about time and a half what I had imagined (but then, I
don't imagine sizes well...)
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "paulamcconnellbks"
<paulamcconnellbks@...> wrote:
>
> Hey radicals,
>
> Loved the bit in the grist, I'm seriously looking into trading in my
> roadbike for one of these. Got a question however...I'm a person of
> faith who wears dresses everyday. (Trust me - that can be quite
> radical too) What can you do for a chain guard so that my calico
> dresses don't get covered in grease?
>
> Living simply,
> Paula
>
Thanks for thinking of me! I have decided to sell my bike and buy an xtracycle but I still don't know if that means finding a decent bike and ordering the kit or ordering a whole longbike. I'm moving into a city this coming August and want the bike to replace my car but for this to really work I'm going to need to wear my regular clothes as much as possible. I don't want some wimpy cruiser or hybrid, I was a serious cyclist and still want a serious bike...but with a chain guard and mud-flaps...you see my dilemma...
Keep sending me reports on how you like your new new xtracycle. It'll help me convince my hubby that selling my brand-new road bike for one of these is not so crazy!
And if you are really curious on what I wear...check out my blog. I have pictures!
Peace, Paula www.leadingorled.blogspot.com
Susan <maps@...> wrote:
I couldn't help but notice that the chainguard on my Schwinn looks like it would work just fine even if there were an extra mess of chain attached to it. So unless your skirts are really full (I think - I'm not good at picturing things!) I think any regular chain guard could still work.
I am really liking my bike now. I was having second thoughts on spending that much money but now that it has happened, I really have taken the bike places already that I'd have hopped into the car for, because I wasn't going to have to figure out how to manage that dish of food. THey're also just plain bigger than they look in the pictures - about time and a half what I had imagined (but then, I don't imagine sizes well...)
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "paulamcconnellbks" <paulamcconnellbks@...> wrote: > > Hey radicals, > > Loved the bit in the grist, I'm seriously looking into trading in my > roadbike for one of these. Got a question however...I'm a person of > faith who wears dresses everyday. (Trust me - that can be quite > radical too) What can you do for a chain guard so that my calico > dresses don't get covered in grease? > > Living simply, > Paula >
Believe it or not, I just saw your blog before I cam here - I found
it googling "Quaker Dress" since our college is doing "Black History
LIve" and they weren't quite ready for me to be Sojourner Truth, so
I'm going to be the Quaker lady who took her in. (I will give clues
and the students will guess who I'm talking about.) I'm not going to
have to work too hard on the costume :-)
THe complete bikes look like pretty good bikes (it's not a brand I'm
familiar with though). I really like my Trek 7500 FX which is really
only a hybrid on the handlebars (and the big tires I didn't get - I
opted for 25 cm tires) - don't know how it would handle mudflaps &
chain guard. Trek also has some all-out "commuting" bikes, too ...
though it seems I can't find as many as there were last year - talk
about a marketing error! (http://www.commuterbicycle.com/ had a link
to one that had a protected chain... but it doesn't seem to be
accessible from this year's site... but that may mean you could get it
cheaply). I know my bike shop guy would love the challenge of
making a workable bike like that. Illinois is a little out of the
way, though.
--- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, Paula McConnell
<paulamcconnellbks@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Susan!
>
> Thanks for thinking of me! I have decided to sell my bike and buy
an xtracycle but I still don't know if that means finding a decent
bike and ordering the kit or ordering a whole longbike. I'm moving
into a city this coming August and want the bike to replace my car but
for this to really work I'm going to need to wear my regular clothes
as much as possible. I don't want some wimpy cruiser or hybrid, I
was a serious cyclist and still want a serious bike...but with a chain
guard and mud-flaps...you see my dilemma...
>
> Keep sending me reports on how you like your new new xtracycle.
It'll help me convince my hubby that selling my brand-new road bike
for one of these is not so crazy!
>
> And if you are really curious on what I wear...check out my blog.
I have pictures!
>
> Peace,
> Paula
> www.leadingorled.blogspot.com
>
> Susan <maps@...> wrote: I couldn't help but notice that the
chainguard on my Schwinn looks
> like it would work just fine even if there were an extra mess of chain
> attached to it. So unless your skirts are really full (I think - I'm
> not good at picturing things!) I think any regular chain guard could
> still work.
>
> I am really liking my bike now. I was having second thoughts on
> spending that much money but now that it has happened, I really have
> taken the bike places already that I'd have hopped into the car for,
> because I wasn't going to have to figure out how to manage that dish
> of food. THey're also just plain bigger than they look in the
> pictures - about time and a half what I had imagined (but then, I
> don't imagine sizes well...)
>
>
> --- In rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com, "paulamcconnellbks"
> <paulamcconnellbks@> wrote:
> >
> > Hey radicals,
> >
> > Loved the bit in the grist, I'm seriously looking into trading in my
> > roadbike for one of these. Got a question however...I'm a person of
> > faith who wears dresses everyday. (Trust me - that can be quite
> > radical too) What can you do for a chain guard so that my calico
> > dresses don't get covered in grease?
> >
> > Living simply,
> > Paula
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
> You're getting this message because you signed up to be an
Xtracycle roots radical.
>
> To Post a message, send it to: rootsradicals@yahoogroups.com
>
>
> ride to believe.
>
>
>
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I have a Raleigh "girl bike" It's only a 7-speed cruiser but I do love it. My commute is only 3 miles each way and I had a very limited budget when I got it and the xtracycle at the same time.
Without riding during the rainy month of January, and now riding again, the hills are pretty difficult and I found myself daydreaming about something easier to get up the hills as I was feeling ready to keel over yesterday! I know I'll get back in shape soon though.
> I have a Raleigh "girl bike" It's only a 7-speed cruiser but I do love it.
> My commute is only 3 miles each way and I had a very limited budget when I
> got
> it and the xtracycle at the same time.
> Without riding during the rainy month of January, and now riding again,
> the
> hills are pretty difficult and I found myself daydreaming about something
> easier to get up the hills as I was feeling ready to keel over yesterday!
You've gotten at the issue with chain guards: they're pretty easy to get
(or put) on bikes that don't have a lot of gears. Lots of gears generally
mean multiple front chainrings, and the more effective kinds of
chainguards don't get along with front derailleurs. If you don't need to
climb steep hills with cargo, there are plenty of bikes that would
accommodate calico-skirted riding. Kipchoge rides an Electra Townie at
least some of the time: I'd provide a direct link if Electra's site
weren't done in link-hostile Flash (sigh). Some Townies come with
few-enough gears to come also with chainguards.
Would it be acceptable to wear leg coverings under the dress and hitch the
dress up enough while riding to keep it clean? Something like bloomers:
http://www.jolique.com/undergarments/bloomers%20_and_bicycles.htm
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