January 2024

The Best Places to Live in the United States if You’re a Bicyclist

From MomentumMag.com

Where are the best places to live if bicycles are a big part of your life? Within the dynamic tapestry of metropolitan existence, where the lively cadence of urbanity merges harmoniously with the tranquil rotation of bicycle spokes, lies an expedition to discover a sanctuary that epitomizes perfection for bicyclists. This odyssey traverses realms imbued with equilibrium and unity—an exploration enveloped in equilibrium and accord—where seekers yearn to find their utopia on two wheels.

Let’s have a look at cities that elevate cycling from a sporting hobby to not just transportation but an intrinsic part of its identity. From dynamic neighborhoods to bustling streets, we delve into unique and often overlooked urban gems, exploring key facets such as bicycle-friendly infrastructure, affordability, weather, economy, cultural richness, culinary delights, and community spirit.

Boulder, Colorado

Nestled beneath the majestic Rockies, Boulder emerges as an urban cyclist’s utopia, adorned with its Platinum-level Bicycle-Friendly Community status. But beyond the allure of mountainous trails and bike lanes, Boulder surprises with a robust and diverse economy. The city’s innovative tech scene and outdoor industry giants create a flourishing job market, ensuring that urban cyclists thrive both on and off the saddle.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Enduring harsh winters, Minneapolis emerges as a Platinum-level Bicycle-Friendly Community, offering picturesque trails like the Chain of Lakes. Beyond the bike-friendly infrastructure, Minneapolis boasts an affordable cost of living, making it a hidden gem for cyclists. The city’s cultural offerings and thriving job market contribute to its appeal.

Portland, Oregon

Venturing to the eclectic city of Portland reveals another Platinum-level Bicycle-Friendly Community. Known for its unconventional spirit and artistic neighborhoods, Portland’s cultural richness aligns harmoniously with its commitment to cycling. Then there is the rich history of bicycle culture that makes the city so unique.

Photo by Justin Shen on Unsplash

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The Best New U.S. Bike Lanes of 2023

From PeopleForBikes.org

By: Martina Haggerty, senior director of local innovation

From bustling cities to small towns, communities from coast to coast amplified their commitment to better biking with an unprecedented surge in safer, more comfortable places to ride in 2023. And, with thousands of additional projects planned across the country and more federal funding for bikes available than ever, we can reasonably expect the pace of construction to increase more dramatically in the coming years.

Even for the most ardent naysayers, it’s difficult to deny that the landscape of bicycling in America is transforming (although not as quickly as many of us would like to see). While we have yet to see any U.S. cities emerge with truly bold citywide plans for bike networks as we’ve seen in places like London, Paris, and Bogota, many are (slowly) beginning to envision a future where cycling takes center stage. Although there remains a substantial amount of work ahead of us to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment for people of all ages and abilities to ride bikes in the U.S., it’s well worth pausing to commemorate the significant infrastructure victories U.S. cities achieved in 2023.

Photo by Dário Gomes on Unsplash

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Is 2024 The Year Bike Prices Fall?

We are chatting about bike prices, will bike prices come down in 2024? We also discuss some people who decided they hate Alex, as he addresses THAT motorbike video! We’ll also discuss the results of the TT races between Ollie and Alex, as well as bring you the latest HOT tech & bike vault!

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Best road bikes 2024 | Our pick of the best endurance, race, women’s and entry-level road bikes

From BikeRadar.com

By Stan Portus | Jack Luke

When deciding on the best road bike for your needs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices available. There are many types of road bikes available and countless options in any given price range.

This article will help you select the best road bike for you, covering the best road bikes as ridden and reviewed by our team of expert testers.

Our team have reviewed a huge number of road bikes over the years. They regularly test budget options suitable for commuting, pro-level superbikes costing over £10,000, and road bikes that ride a lot like gravel bikes.

Regardless of price, all road bikes are designed to take you far and fast on paved surfaces, earning their name from the terrain they are meant to be used on. While the latest road bikes have a similar appearance to those of 50 years ago, with double-triangle frames and drop handlebars, these bikes have come on leaps and bounds.

At the top and middle of the market, they now feature disc brakes, carbon fibre frames and electronic gears. The lower end of the market still sees road bikes with metal frames and rim brakes. But these bikes have also evolved, with increased tyre clearance and modern, comfortable geometry.

We have split this list into the different categories of road bikes, as well as entry-level and price-point options, so there should be something here for everyone.

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Why Bicycle accidents occur and how to protect yourself

From SoCalCycling.com

Embarking on a journey astride a bicycle not only connects us to the world around us but also unveils the vulnerability we face on the open road. The sense of liberation can, unfortunately, be accompanied by the lurking danger of accidents. Recognizing the intricacies behind bicycle accidents is pivotal for any cyclist, and the art of self-preservation becomes paramount. This comprehensive exploration delves into the multifaceted reasons contributing to bicycle accidents, coupled with practical strategies for safeguarding oneself against these perils.

LACK OF VISIBILITY: A LEADING CULPRIT

The pervasive lack of visibility stands as a formidable adversary for cyclists, often propelling them into situations where their presence is easily overshadowed by larger vehicles. Intersections and lane changes become treacherous grounds, where cyclists risk collision due to their diminutive profile. Combatting this hazard involves a multifaceted approach. Equipping oneself with high-visibility clothing and accessories, such as reflective vests and blinking lights, becomes a visual assertion demanding attention. Moreover, strategic route planning that favors well-lit pathways and a conscientious awareness of blind spots are essential practices in minimizing the risks posed by inadequate visibility.

RECKLESS DRIVING BEHAVIORS: A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

Reckless driving behaviors, such as disregarding traffic signals or exceeding speed limits, are catalysts for accidents involving bicycles. To ensure personal safety, cyclists must adhere rigorously to traffic rules, offering predictability to their motorized counterparts. In California, the “Three Feet for Safety Act” dictates that vehicles must maintain a minimum distance of three feet when overtaking cyclists, exemplifying how legislation aims to safeguard cyclists from reckless driving behaviors. In case of an unfortunate accident, working with reliable can help cyclists navigate the legal complexities and secure their rights. However, preventing such accidents requires a shared responsibility, where all road users must uphold their civic duty in promoting road safety.

Photo by Ian Valerio on Unsplash

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Bike-friendly destinations for sunshine and two-wheeled good times

From MomentumMag.com

Are you a cycling enthusiast dreaming of sun-soaked rides and bike-friendly destinations in vibrant urban landscapes? Look no further. We’ve curated a guide to take you on a two-wheeled escapade through some of the most bicycle-friendly and very warm cities in the United States. Each destination not only offers thrilling cycling options but also boasts delectable dining, bike-friendly accommodations, and must-see sites.

Key West, Florida: Cycling in Paradise

Embrace the island life in Key West, where historic charm meets coastal beauty. Picture yourself pedaling through the pastel streets of Old Town, stopping at the iconic Southernmost Point, and cruising along the Overseas Heritage Trail with the gentle sea breeze in your hair. Explore quaint eateries like Half Shell Raw Barand Blue Heaven for a taste of local seafood.

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at accommodations like The Perry Hotel, offering not only a comfortable stay but also bike rentals and cyclist-friendly amenities. And, of course, no visit to Key West is complete without indulging in the vibrant energy of Duval Street and exploring the historic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

San Francisco, California: Hills, Thrills, and Iconic Landmarks

San Francisco beckons with its iconic hills, breathtaking views, and diverse neighborhoods. Embark on a cycling adventure that takes you through Golden Gate Park, across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Fuel your journey with seafood delights at The Fish Market and Italian cuisine in North Beach. Try the loop trail at Angel Island.

San Francisco is one of American’s top bike-friendly destinations from way back. Bay Area Bike Share provides a convenient way to explore the city, with numerous stations scattered strategically. Choose accommodations like Stay Pineapple for a bike-friendly stay with rental options. Don’t miss out on cycling some of the many trails around town including the permanently car-free JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park in addition to exploring Alcatraz Island, admiring the Painted Ladies, and experiencing the twists and turns of Lombard Street.

Photo by Benjamin Voros on Unsplash

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The history of the Strida folding bike, one of the most unusual city bikes ever made

From Road.cc

by SUVI LOPONEN

Four decades after it was conceived as part of a master’s project, the Strida with its ‘A-shaped’ frame still stands out. You can even roll it round when you’re not riding it

In the world of folding bikes, the Strida stands out as a unique and innovative creation. Designed by UK engineer and designer Mark Sanders, this portable, belt-driven folding bicycle has evolved over the years around the ‘A’-shaped, collapsible frame. Here we take a little delve into the history and peculiar design features of this bike. 

Over the years, Strida has garnered a bit of a reputation and become a sort of cult classic for its riders. What sparked our interest in this bike was a video that popped up on X/Twitter recently, showing a rider hauling what seems like quite an unrealistic load on their Strida. We also spotted one right outside the road.cc office a few years ago!

The Strida was originally created by Brit Mark Sanders as part of his master’s degree project between 1983 and 1985. It was born as a solution for urban commuters seeking a portable, easy-to-use, and maintainable folding bicycle.

The ‘A’-shaped frame and belt-driven system were chosen for simplicity and ease of maintenance, and the form was inspired by the Maclaren baby stroller, which was renowned for its compact fold.

Image courtesy of Road.cc

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