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2009 PRODUCT REVIEW ARCHIVES
Avid Shorty 4 Canti Brakes (posted Sept 07, 2009)
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With cyclocross season here again it`s time to review one of our favourite cx bits - the ubiquitous Avid Shorty 4 cantilever brakes. These brakes have been around for a while now but for `09 they received a bit of a redesign, resulting in a lighter overall weight and a stiffer setup, which translates to even better braking power. They still maintain their short profile so they don`t interfere with your pedal stroke (rear canti`s with too much length can often cause heel-strike issues) and the very easy to adjust brake pad and washer system remains unchanged.
One set of Shorty 4`s works for either the front or rear and comes with everything you need for mounting, including straddle cable and yoke (well actually the cable and yoke is sort of one piece - you`ll see what we mean when you check them out).
At just $34 per pair these brakes are almost too good to be true. If you need an inexpensive upgrade from an old, underperforming set of canti`s on your `cross bike, or your commuter or even your old mountain bike, these are for you.
Serfas Bike Armor Bike Case (posted Aug 21, 2009)
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This could be a Featured Special seeing as it's on sale for just $525, down from $575, but we wanted to include it here along with a brief review. The Serfas Bike Armor Bike Case is a fairly straight forward product - you use it to box up your bike when you're travelling. It's very popular for use during air travel but is also used on road trips when customers are packing up lots of stuff and want their bike in a safe, enclosed, and out of the way container. In most cases the bike needs to have the saddle, post, and pedals removed, the handlebar removed or turned down, and of course the wheels need to come off, but no serious bike disassembly is required. All of your cables, derailleurs, brakes, and so on remain intact so there is very little reassembly required when you reach your destination or arrive back home.
The case comes with 3 good foam inserts that can be layered between your bike and the wheels to avoid scratching during transit, and there are durable metal hooks in each corner of the box to accommodate tie down straps that can further hold your bike in place. The outer shell is a very tough polyethylene with heavy duty, lockable clasps and two caster wheels so you can role the box instead of carrying it. Picking up the box isn't a problem though because it weighs only 30 lbs or so (plus contents).
The Serfas Bike Armor Bike Case fits just about any bike and can provide many, many years of transportation assistance. If your bike is precious to you (and shouldn't it be?) this case will provide peace of mind on air or road trips for years to come.
NS Bikes (posted Aug 17, 2009)
Click on pictures above to enlarge images All NS Bike pics above and in slideshow below by H. Mitchell We recently featured an NS bike on these pages but we thought it was about time to roll out a larger promo of this sweet new line. Resident cool guy Wayne (part time here at the shop) took some of the bikes to his back yard bike park to test them out and get a few pics snapped, and he's shared his thoughts below.
Editor's note: If you've ever watched those dirt jump bike videos and wondered if those west-coast styl'n, almost too hip guys who can call each other "dude" and somehow not make it sound cheesy exist in real life, Wayne Bishop is living, breathing proof that they do. Take it away Wayne: What can I say that hasn’t already been said about NS – New School, No S@#T, New to the Scene. They rep a full product line that has catapulted them to the forefront, whether you want to ride a brakeless inspired park bike, or throw on big knobs and hit the DJs. This innovative and progressive company has something for everyone. Weight conscious, steel frames, that are heat-treated and rust-proof with perfect geometry and clean lines. With the soggy rains of Winnipeg weather this July, there came a rainbow with a box full of gold nuggets at the end. On the top of that robust pot came a suburban 24, gleaming stark white, begging to be hit with a splash of purple and to be decked out with some of the most styly in-house fashion of the season. Beautifully bent bars of gold, held securely by a sturdy and simple stem. Her clean steel tubes butted and heat tempered longing for a custom sticker job. Micro driver hubs that hum like helicopters as you ratchet up the RPMs, built like its funded by the us war department, using steel parts and bushings not sissy little bearings. There is everything you want and nothing you don’t need: no external gussets, welded cable guides or brake posts. Just a pursuit of perfection that brings an excellence that is unmatched by any other. It has great attributes: a steep head tube without the twitch, slammed geometry that’s home in tight transitions, rips bowls or boosts quarters, seemingly made for the parks of the peg city. Now let’s do dirt, here its the Majesty, big wheels, murdered out paint and more of the same I now expect from NS. A thoroughbred of steel, a true black stallion now resides at my stable. I put some shoes on her and turn her loose to run through all obstacles: walls, gaps, hips, tables, step-ups, spines, berms and some pump track. Floating effortlessly, easy to control and quick to respond to every one of my commands. True Love. Elbows beautifully bent to proof bars, standing stickily to concave platforms, out of the saddle frothing at the mouth for more – and I am talking about myself. This S#*T is crisp and refreshing as an apple out of the icebox on a 43 degree humidex day. Get some!!!!! For all the tech talk, go to their website, www.nsbikes.com. And if you want some of the freshest products for dirt or park or in between, kick it over to Olympia and peep this produce before its poached. Ergo Grips (posted Aug 03, 2009)
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Many customers come to us to share their concerns regarding numb hands. It's not uncommon for hands to go numb, or at least feel all 'tingly' or uncomfortable, during a ride. This is especially true on mountain bike rides where the bar doesn't typically allow for as many hand positions compared with a standard road bike bar. The good news is that there are many potential solutions, in the form of more ergonomic grips.
In the last few years grip makers have begun catering to riders who need more than the simple, round, rubber grip. Many grips are now shaped to better distribute pressure along a larger area of your palm, and to avoid aggravating specific areas of the palm that are susceptible to negative nerve issues. Most of these grips also utilize different rubber densities to further accommodate your common pressure points. Some even have incorporated bar ends that allow you to switch up your hand positions while you ride.
We have many different ergonomic grips in stock, from many manufacturers including Serfas, Specialized, and Ergon, and ranging in price from $12 to $56. We have ergonomic grips designed specifically for men and women, and ones that are made specifically for trigger or grip shift. Whatever your need, we're pretty sure we have something in stock that will help.
Cool Weather Jackets (posted July 23, 2009)
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We have a good selection of men's and women's cool weather jackets in stock, and lets face it, this hasn't been the warmest summer on record, so this week we're featuring a women's jacket from Pearl Izumi: The Whisper.
Maybe it's called the Whisper because it's fairly understated. We like the fact that it can not only be worn on your daily commute but can be worn into the office or into the coffee shop on the way home without drawing unwanted attention, while still remaining very visible on the road thanks to good colour choices and reflective piping.
The Whisper has been a perennial favourite, but got even better this year with an updated style and a softer fabric. While very wind and water resistant the fabric feels nice against your skin, unlike some older, more `plastic` feeling jackets. The collar in particular feels nice even when the jacket is zipped all the way up. The Whisper is well ventilated and of course has a full zippered pocket in the back. It's pretty form fitting, which tends to look more flattering but also helps from feeling like a parachute in Winnipeg wind.
This is a fairly lightweight jacket, intended for cool summer days (or nights), or when there's rain or excessive wind. It can also be used as an outer layer in the early spring or late fall. At $93 it doesn't cost that much for a jacket that will last many seasons and greatly enhance your riding comfort on less than ideal days.
We have a few colours and sizes in stock. We also have similar jackets available from companies like Cannondale (also pictured above), and of course we have men's styles as well, so feel free to check out our selection today.
Bells - all kinds of bells (posted July 06, 2009)
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This is another pretty easy Product Review (your illustrious editor is watching the Tour de France on TV right now and doesn't want to write a complicated review), but the humble bike bell deserves to be mentioned on this site every now and then, or at least once. As bikes continue to increase in popularity for riding to work, school, and to run quick errands around town the city's bike paths are getting busier. Bike bells offer a very convenient way to let other riders, pedestrians, runners, dog walkers, and so on know that you're approaching them. A polite little ringing of a bell attached to your bike's handlebar can help you avoid a potential accident. With the bells we carry costing as little as $3 each they seem like a pretty cheap accident avoidance method.
We have many, many different bell styles in stock, just four of which are pictured above. There's a style to suit any bike, from lightweight unobtrusive bells for fast commuter bikes to large and ornate bells for your flashy cruiser. Our bell prices currently range from $3 to $25, with many in the $3-$4 and $10 range.
All of the bells have an almost universal fit. There are many different sounds available, but they're all loud and clear. And if a bell is not your style we also have horns, so whatever your preference if you need a cheap and easy way to let others know that you're coming up from behind come down to the shop and check out our selection today.
Lizard Skins (posted June 23, 2009)
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The now ubiquitous Lizard Skin chain stay protector has become such a popular product in the last decade or two (we've lost track of when exactly they came on the scene, but we're going to say it's been about 15 years) that it's hard to imagine a time without them. Often it's the simplest solutions that are the best, and Lizard Skins are a perfect example of this.
Ever since Campy invented the rear derailleur geared bikes have had an inherent problem: When you're coasting the chain isn't under that much tension (only as much as the rear derailleur provides) and if you go over any bumps without adequate chain tension the chain tends to slap against the chainstay (that is, the tube between the crankset / bottom bracket area and the rear dropout near the rear derailleur). At best this creates a loud, and to some annoying, sound as you ride along on your otherwise silent, perfectly tuned bike. At worst this creates paint chips that are unsightly and may leave your frame material unprotected from corrosion. Enter Lizard Skins. They created a simple neoprene sleeve that wraps around your chainstay and adheres to itself with a strip of velcro. It takes about 5 seconds to apply and once on, voila!...no more chain slap. Or to be more accurate the chain will still slap against the chainstay but now your tube is protected by a neoprene cover so there's no annoying noise and no paint damage.
Lizard Skins have progressed along with the rest of the bike industry. 15 years ago small diameter tubing was still very common so only one size of chain stay protector was required for almost every application. Now there are a few different protector sizes to accommodate larger tubing and even dual suspension swing arms. Lizard Skins started out by offering just a black protector but by now there are a number of colours to perfectly coordinate with the rest of your bike.
There's not really that much more to say. The protectors are made with very durable stitching and they are washable, so if they get really gunked up with chain lube you can get them nice and bright again. For just $13 each they do exactly what they're supposed to do, nothing more, nothing less. Pretty simple. We always try to have an assorted of Lizard Skins in stock so if you need one feel free to come down anytime to check them out.
Dirty Dog Reaper Stem (posted June 16, 2009)
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This is an item that we imagine will make some of our customers say "cool" while others say "what the...?" While not for everyone (and not for every ride - it would probably look a little out of place on a triathlon bike, for instance) the Dirty Dog Reaper stem is a very unique component compliment to some bikes, such as a trials bike or aggressive downhill bike, to name a couple.
Although it borders on the gimmicky (we mean that in the nicest way possible) the Reaper is actually a fine piece of quality componentry. It's made of forged and machined 6061 aluminum, the graphics are laser etched, and the provided bolts are long, chrome plated chromoly that provide excellent durability.
The fitting is precise - it holds a handlebar very snugly, and it feels crazy stiff. The stem comes in one size: 50 mm length and 8 degree rise. As you'd expect it's made for a 31.8 mm bar and a 1 1/8th inch head tube. Pictured above is black but it also comes in silver and red.
At $260 it's not the cheapest stem out there, but then again cheaper stems aren't made to scare the living dead. Dirty Dog's slogan is "leave your mark", and we think they succeeded with the Reaper. The one pictured above was special ordered for a customer. We don't carry these in stock, but we can certainly order more on request.
Arkel Tail Rider (posted June 08, 2009)
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Our pannier bags and seat packs are all purpose built but we have to admit that they're not all made with style in mind. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but on the other hand if you can have both function and fashion why not? The Arkel Tail Rider bills itself as a sleek, aerodynamic bag built for your pannier top. While we doubt that a less sleek bag will cost you too much time on your next group ride we do think the Tail Rider looks every bit as slick as it professes.
And as for function there's much to be pointed out, including an insulated shell, lots of pockets for stuff like your wallet, cell phone or PDA, ID, spare change, and so on, and even an integrated rain cover (which might be a bit of overkill considering the zippers are already waterproof).
The Tail Rider has an 11 L capacity but has a "bellow" built into its top that allows it to be stuffed beyond normal capacity. Of course doing so might affect its aerodynamic properties.
The Tail Rider is a great pannier pack to be used solo as a carry-all for fitness rides, or it can be used as a suppliment for larger bags used for full touring.
We've got other pannier bags in stock too, so whether you need a relatively small capacity bag like the one featured here or if you require massive volume for your next cross-Canada adventure, come and check out or stock - we're sure you'll find something that suits your needs perfectly.
Pant Clips (posted May 24, 2009)
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Maybe this is just an easy way out of writing a more detailed product review, but this week we're featuring the ever-so-simple but oh-so-effective pant clip. There's not much to say here, except to note that these really work well.
We tend to favour the metal pant clips. They do a great job of keeping your pant leg from getting caught in your bike's chain, they come on and off in a second, they can be bent into shape if they don't conform well with the shape of your ankle right out of the bag, and they even come with a reflective strip to increase your visibility. Maybe best of all a pair costs just $5.00.
It's also worth noting that they can be used for holding the excess amount of quilting fabric in a roll while you hand stitch that new quilt for your favourite niece - we sell about as many of these metal pant clips to quilters as we do to cyclists. Seriously.
If you'd prefer we also have textile pant clips in stock (pictured far right above) with Velcro adhesive, for $5.00 each. Choose either style and save your pant legs today!
Paul Componenets NeoRetro Canti brakes (posted May 09, 2009)
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Paul Componenets makes some really nice stuff; none nicer than their NeoRetro Cantilever brakes for cyclocross or touring bikes, or any other bike that uses traditional drop brake levers (or other lever with similar leverage) and has canti studs. Like the name implies the NeoRetro's are an updated version of an old classic - more specifically they're designed after the Mafac canti brakes of years past. However, updates include fully adjustable v-brake style pads (the pads can be moved up and down and they can be angled and toed in and out, unlike some other high-end cantis), and a unique-to-Paul spring tension system that allows for superb adjustment and tons of tension if necessary.
The classic design provides lots of mud and tire clearance and very powerful braking. The only real drawback to the brake design is that the wide stance of the brake arms does sometimes cause some heel strike on the rear brake, depending on the other dimensions of your bike, your foot size, and your pedalling stroke. However, Paul has provided a solution for this by also offering a narrower brake arm version called the Touring model. The Touring model doesn't provide quite as much power, but when mated with a NeoRetro up front there is still lots of brake to grab when the situation calls for it. Many set-ups work fine with the NeoRetro both front and rear. Both versions of Paul's canti brakes set up very easily and come with all the required bits and pieces including the straddle cable and hanger.
While the cost isn't cheap - $155 per brake set (that is, for the front or rear, not both) - these are amazing brakes that add a really exotic touch to your favourite bike.
Nutcase Helmets (posted May 01, 2009)
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Nutcase helmets were reviewed on this site over a year ago as a new product but as spring has finally arrived again and as customers are looking for new helmets we figured it was okay to review them again. We like Nutcase's because they don't follow the same convention as most other bike helmets and provide our customers with an alternative. What's more, Nutcase has innumerable cool designs to choose from (just four of which are featured above).
Nutcase helmets come in 3 sizes and each comes with two sets of pads, one set thicker than the other, as well as the usual strap adjustments, so almost all cyclists can find one that's comfortable to wear. Nutcase's don't come with a strap across the back and base of the head but because the helmet itself has a lower back that covers more of the head this isn't really necessary - they still feel nice and secure. The chin strap adjusts just as on any other helmet. And of course these helmets meet the same government safety standards required for all of our helmets.
The only downside we really see to the Nutcase is that they have less ventilation than a more conventional bike helmet. Though there is some ventilation you can't generate the same breeze flowing thru the helmet as you would with some other designs. However we figure that most folks using their Nutcase are more about tooling around town at a relaxed pace, or hanging out at a local jump park, to really worry about more ventilation. Besides, the style factor and good fit of these helmets makes up for anything else.
We have plenty of styles and sizes in stock at the time of this posting so feel free to check out all of the designs in store today.
MiNewt Mini-USB LED Lithium Ion light (posted April 22, 2009)
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This is a really cool new product from NiteRider lighting systems: The MiNewt Mini-USB LED Lithium Ion light. Actually NiteRider has been doing a great job of making similar lights for some time now, but this is the first time they designed one to be rechargeable via your computer's USB port. Of course the Li-ion battery is also capable of being charged from a conventional wall outlet, providing you with great recharging versatility when you arrive at work or school after your daily commute.
As for performance, the MiNewt offers 110 lumens, which translates to more than enough light to get you thru city streets after dark, and even enough to help you make your way thru nigh time trails at a moderate pace. What's even better, the light and battery pack can conveniently be placed on just about any tube of just about any bike, so no matter what other stuff you've got hanging from your bicycle you should be able to find room for this little 175g unit. We can also order in an inexpensive mount that allows you to attach the light and battery to the top of your helmet. With the lightweight Li-ion battery you don't have to worry about balancing a heavy battery on top of your scull, and with the light and battery all in one place you don't have to worry about stringing a cable from your helmet down to a battery carried in a courier bag or on your bike frame.
The MiNewt ha a run time of 3 hours (if your commute is longer than that we're really impressed) and the full recharge time is just 4 1/2 hours. The whole unit (not including optional helmet mount) costs just $165, and at the time of this posting we have a few in stock, so feel free to come down to the shop to check them out today.
Surly Big Dummy (posted April 03, 2009)
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This is a bit of a niche bike to be sure, but with more and more people commuting by bike to work, running two-wheeled errands, and so forth, maybe it's closer to the mainstream than we're giving it credit for. The Surly Big Dummy has an extra long wheel base that allows the rider to store a lot of gear over top and beside the rear wheel - essentially it's like you have an extra large, extra strong, and more versatile pannier.
Benefits to riding this kind of set-up, as opposed to a using a more conventional trailer, include a completely solid connection and feel from front to rear (compared with a hinged connection) and the ability to secure everything with one lock when you park your bike outside the grocery store. Obviously the extra long wheelbase creates a bit of a different ride, but the bike is surprisingly agile considering its length. The frame and fork set use mostly conventional components so it's easy to build up a Big Dummy with stock bits and pieces. Other immediate characteristics and features you'll notice include a nicely sloped top tube that allows you to easily put a leg over the bike without leaning it too much (important when you have a lot of weight on the back), integrated foot pegs in the rear for some comfortable old-style doubling, room for 4 bottle cages, tons of room for wide tires, and provision for linear pull or disc brakes.
We have an 18" frame and fork in stock right now and at the time of this posting a 20" frame is on its way. We can also order in full bikes with a large rear bag and a basic rear deck as standard items. If you'd like to further accessorize the bike you can surf over to www.xtracycle.com to browse additional deck options and other goodies. Cost is $1300 for a frame and fork or $3600 for a complete bike.
Check out a quick little video of the Big Dummy in operation, taken from the xtracycle site:
Crumpler Messenger Bags (posted Mar 27, 2009)
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We're very happy to announce the addition of a new line of messenger bags to Olympia - Crumpler's! Crumpler is an Australian company who have been around for a few years now. They have the usual "we designed one bag (actually, one of their staff designed the first bag on his own), it was cool and worked better than anything else around, we designed a few more and started some gorilla marketing because we had no money for conventional advertising, other people thought that they were cool and worked better than anything else around, they bought our stuff so now we're moderately successful but we're still totally normal people" back-story. Beer and pizza is also a large part of their story, which seems appropriate.
Truth be told we haven't put their bags to extreme tests yet (they just arrived) but they look really durable (and come with many awesome testimonials), there are many styles and colours to choose from, and they're really comfortable to wear. Below is a little video that might explain the company a bit more.
Come by the shop anytime to check out the bags we've got in stock, or to grab a catalogue and look at what else is available.
Pinhead 3-Pack Lock Set (for wheels and set) (posted Mar 13, 2009)
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If you use your bike to run errands, or to get to school or work, or for any other commuting needs, and you have to lock your bike up outside you probably use a U-lock style bike lock, such as the fine locks we stock from Kryptonite. The only problem with U-locks is that thy can't lock up your bike's frame and wheels at the same time without removing the wheels first (and it can be difficult to lock everything up together even if you do remove the wheels). Pinhead Components has created a solution by designing wheel skewers that replace your existing quick release skewers with a simple system that requires a special key (which is obviously unique to every skewer set) to loosen your wheels from your frame and fork. There's another skewer to replace the bolt on your seat collar in order to keep your seat post secure as well. The Pinhead skewers are very simple to use, they look good, and they're lighter than virtually any other skewer on the market.
At $70 for a set, the Pinhead locking skewer system is a bit of cash, but it's a heck of a lot cheaper than replacing a stolen wheelset and seat post, and it's a lot more convenient than taking your wheels on and off every time you go somewhere with your bike.
Park Tools Chain Gang kit (posted Mar 06, 2009)
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Spring is coming, and in Winnipeg that means wet and sandy roads that can wear your bike's drivetrain down to bits. The #1 key to drivetrain longevity is keeping your chain nice and clean, so this week we're reviewing the Park Tools Chain Gang chain cleaning kit. For just $45 this kit comes with a chain scrubber, a brush, and some citrus chain cleaner. The scrubber can easily be used without removing the chain from your bike - simply remove the top of the scrubber housing, poor in some cleaner, place the scrubber under the chain and then sandwich the chain within the scrubber by putting the top back on. The chain will automatically be guided thru a couple of brush wheels that help remove accumulated grit and grim.
The brush does an excellent job of cleaning in between the cassette cogs and other hard to get to spots. If you spend just a few minutes after your nasty spring rides cleaning off the drivetrain with this handy little kit you will definitely prolong its life - in fact the Park Tools Chain Gang kit will pay for itself many times over. Don't be caught in the spring muck without a chain cleaner of your own!
VeloNews Buyer's Guide '09 (posted Feb 26, 2009)
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We might be cheating with our Product Review this week seeing as we're reviewing a buyer's guide, which in itself is really a bunch of product reviews, but Olympia's webguy has had a busy week (doing more than just reading the Buyer's Guide, btw), and regardless, VelowNews' annual review publication is worth mentioning here.
Generally speaking print and web bike publications walk a fine line when reviewing product because even if they're unbiased they risk the wrath of manufacturers and distributors who they rely on for future product if their reviews are too critical. Too many bad reviews and they may have no product left to review, or at least no prototypes or exclusives hot off the assembly line. Somehow VeloNews manages to be critical of product in a fair and balanced way and still seems to get the inside scoop on everything.
This year's buyer's guide has the usual selection of reviews of the latest mountain bikes, road bikes, wheel sets, shocks, and so on, all nicely laid out according to cost, frame materials, intended use, etc. It also has an excellent side by side comparison of the top end road components from Campy, Shimano, Sram, and even Sampson, and a feature on bike models that won major events in the last year. All in all it's $9.99 well spent, though we warn you that if you read the magazine you'll probably end up spending more by the time you're thru.
At the time of this posting we still have a few VeloNews Buyer's Guides in stock, so come get them while they're hot.
Bell Boomerang Kid's Helmets (posted Feb 19, 2009)
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Until recently is was hard to find a good fitting and exciting-to-wear helmet for your child. Fortunately helmet manufacturers noticed this hole in the market and have stepped up in the last few years. It's best to get your child into a helmet even before they're on a two-wheeler of their own; while they're still on a trike or even while they're still in a bike trailer. It's certainly safer to wear a helmet no matter what stage they're at, but maybe even more importantly it helps develop a good, and potentially life-saving, habit to ask your child to wear a helmet at the very first stage of their introduction to bikes.
The Bell Boomerang is exactly the type of helmet that kids are excited to wear. They have fun colours and pictures, but they also fit well and are well ventilated, so that even after the cosmetic attraction wears off your child will leave the helmet in place. Bell's attention to detail includes a pinch guard buckle that, well, guards against pinches - specifically it helps prevent the child's neck from getting pinched when the main helmet straps are done up. It also has a Half Nelson fit system that cradles the back of the head in order to help keep the helmet in place, and there's a foam visor to keep the sun out of little eyes. Oh, and one of the nicest developments in kids helmets recently is the addition of mesh coverings over the helmet vents, which prevents bugs, or worse, bees, from flying under the helmet while your child is wearing it.
All in all, the Bell Boomerang is a great deal for your young child, at only $35. We have a few kids sizes and styles in stock right now so come check them out before the spring rush hits.
Knog Lights (posted Jan 31, 2009)
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While there's nothing wrong with the average LED 'blinkie' light out there, Knog has taken the art of bike lights one step further and designed something that not only looks cool, but is also light weight, waterproof, virtually unbreakable, instantly adaptable to almost any tube diameter (and easily moveable from one bike to another or even different positions on the same bike), and still pretty cheap. Wow, there's not much more you could ask for in a little light.
Available in a variety of colours we have plenty of the original Knog Frog single LED's in stock for just $13 each (and we now have front and rear twin packs for just $24). We also have the new Gekko 3 LED light for increased visibility, selling for $30 each, and we even have replacement lithium battery twin packs for $4 a pack. Two lithium cell batteries last up to 160 hours in strobe mode, so $4 will keep you illuminated for quite a while.
These little guys are all over our bikes - we use them all the time and couldn't be happier (well, as happy as you can be because of a blinkie light anyway). Come down to the shop and choose your colour today.
Brooks Classic Saddle (posted Jan 23, 2009)
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We really like this saddle, which is why it's getting a second review after already posting something about Brooks Saddles on this site last year. Brooks makes arguably the nicest looking saddles around, but they are also functionally superior to just about anything else out there. The model pictured above is the B17 - their flagship saddle. This is the 3rd century this model has been in production (beginning in 1898), and for many it has been the only trusted saddle used decade after decade.
Stories abound of Brooks saddle uses who won't even think of using anything else. With Brook's use of only the very best leather hide and hand hammered copper rivets, and with the famous fit that conforms to your body over time but never gets cold or clammy no matter how much you use it, it's no wonder why.
We have a few of the B17's in stock right now so come down to the shop when you have a chance and check out for yourself.
Go Pro Helmet Hero wide angle helmet cam (posted Jan 16, 2009)
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In the last few years POV digital video cameras have become increasingly popular. Digital technology, more powerful and lighter batteries, and video sharing sites like YouTube have made it possible for almost anyone to film, edit, and share their outdoor adventures with one another. There's a lot of new product out there but for our money we think the Go Pro Helmet Hero wide angle helmet cam is one of the best cameras for its intended purpose.
The Helmet Hero is a pretty simple affair. The camera itself is really small and light (even lighter if you use 2 AAA lithium batteries). There's no LCD display, no zoom, and limited recording features. You pretty much mount the camera, turn the thing on (after adjusting the default settings if necessary) and start riding.
What the camera does have is good resolution (5 Megapixel video), almost an hour of recording time with the use of a 2 GB SD card (purchased separately), long battery life (and easily replaceable batteries), a wide angle 170 degree lens, and a waterproof to 100' case. It also comes with plenty of mounting options to ensure that you can easily mount the camera to any type of bicycle helmet, or any number of other objects. It even comes with a head strap to wear directly on your head if you want to film hands-free off of the bike.
We wanted to post a video that we produced ourselves using the Helmet Hero, but the outdoor conditions haven't been great for creating exciting mountain biking footage recently, and we thought that a video taken of us cross country skiing probably wouldn't hold your attention long, so instead we've posted a video taken from the Go Pro site, above. We can however say that we have tested the camera ourselves and can attest to its picture quality and ease of use. It should be noted that the camera does not come with any editing software. It does come with RCA-USB plugs to upload the video to your PC, though we suspect most users will simply remove the SD card from the camera after filming and plug that directly into their PC. With the proliferation of online video sharing sites, most of which have their own editing features, we don't think the lack of software is a big deal.
All in all we were very impressed with this little camera, and we plan to get plenty of use out of it on the trails this coming summer. We'll be sure to post some of our own video here in the future using the Go Pro Helmet Hero Camera - in the mean time maybe you want to pick one up for yourself and become the next viral video sensation.
Learn to Nordic Ski DVD (posted Jan 04, 2009)
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Early last year we reviewed the Learn to Nordic Ski DVD series from xczone.tv, and received some positive feedback about its usefulness in teaching new skiers some basic technique, so we thought we'd bring some more DVD's in for this year's ski season and post a revised review here.
The DVD's pictured above can be viewed in the comfort of your living room before you leave for the ski trails, or maybe you can upload them to your favourite hand-held device to be used as an on-trail tutorial. Either way, they provide low cost instruction that you can use when it's convenient for you.
The first DVD in the series teaches the basics of both classic and skate technique. As we noted last year the DVD menu lists 3 different features. At first glance it appears that each feature may teach progressive ski techniques, with the 1st feature being the most basic and the 3rd feature the most advanced. While this sort of holds true each feature is actually designed to stand alone as a crash course in skiing for beginners. Each feature is hosted by someone different and shot and produced independent of the others.
Despite our endorsement of this product last year we also cautioned that "the 1st feature of the DVD isn't really that good". We reviewed it again this year and wonder if we were too harsh last season. We still got the most out of the 2nd and 3rd features, which do a good job of covering the basic skills of skiing, but the 1st feature isn't that bad either. The production values are pretty basic so in this day and age of High Definition, digital surround sound, million dollar production budgets just remember that this DVD is a little more down to earth - and for what it's worth it's not pretending to be any more than what it is: A good, basic tutorial on the fundamental techniques of skiing.
We have a few of these DVD's in stock now so feel free to check them out before you hit the trails.
2008 PRODUCT REVIEW ARCHIVES
CycleOps Pro 300PT Indoor Cycle (posted Dec 19, 2008)
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The following review was submitted by part time employee Brian Szklarczuk:
What do you get when you combine a 150 pound bike with a 50 pound flywheel and a wireless Powertap cycling computer? Actually, there's no punch line, but what you do get is one of the most torturous devices known to the cycling world the Cycleops Pro 300PT indoor exercise bike. So, why would any sane person want to use this thing? Well, we need to give a bit of background here to explain the interest in spending countless evenings in a dark basement, cursing the names of the legends of cycling past and asking for divine forgiveness from the cycling gods. About a year ago, I spoke with our super shop owner Scot and told him of my decision to get back to racing on the velodrome. This is something I used to do (along with lots of others from the shop) when fixies were just our track bikes that we rode around. These were our only cool bikes, oh and we also only used bull-horn bars for individual time trials. Should I also mention that Winnipeg ACTUALLY had a velodrome (RIP, 1967- 1998).
Anyway, I embarked on this track resurrection and wanted to pull together the best training tools available to us at Olympia. This included a Powertap, a fabulous task-master coach (Coach Ricardo Yaz ) and a new sharp bike (Specialized Langster Pro). As we began working on track-specific workouts, it was soon that it's really hard to simulate track starts without a real track. It was also hard to simulate the feeling of rolling along at 45+ km/hr in a fixed gear. So, after discussing it with Scot (Olympia's super store owner), he thought the Cycleops indoor bike would be the perfect way to spend my evenings at home. Thanks Scooter. So, here are my impressions:
Unboxing:
It actually took more time to unload this behemoth into its resting place then it did to set it up. The instructions were super-duper simple, and I had it ready to ride in under 20 minutes. But before I actually got on it I spent a bunch of time playing with the fully adjustable position, with oodles of choices available from folks from 5 feet tall to 6+ feet tall. Considering I am on the shorter end of this spectrum I was a bit worried about getting aero but that wasn't an issue whatsoever. I am almost as flat as my track bike's pursuit position. This is quite surprising considering that I am, well, vertically challenged. Not bad Cycleops, not bad.
The First Ride!:
On a Friday night, at 12:30 a.m. I embarked on the maiden voyage, and well, I really wasn't prepared for what this thing had to offer. The 50 pound flywheel was impressively smooth, super silent, but turning it for the first time was a bit of a chore. It¹s kind of like riding into a headwind, where you have to give it a bit of gas to start. But once it gets going, hold on! The flywheel gets rolling and it's as smooth as electronic Dura-Ace (not that I've used it, but that's what I'm told it feels like).
HAL The brains:
The brains of the 300PT is the 2.4 GHz wireless powertap computer which measures speed, calories, heart rate, cadence, and most importantly POWER. This has become a really important training tool in the world of cycling, and something I now swear by (even though I often swear AT it when the going gets tough). The rear hub transmits the information via strain gauges to a nice big console display that sits on your handlebars. It has a BIG display and is fully customizable. The information from the hub is transmitted continuously and the power readings are updated every second. You really can't cheat this thing, as it is way smarter than you think. The console has a USB port and stores up to 50 hours of data, which then gets downloaded via the PowerAgent software.
Pros!:
Huge 48-pound flywheel gives a ridiculously hard road feel Limitless adjustments Super Quiet
Cons?:
It will make you cry and hurt
(Editor's note: We don't typically keep these types of indoor bikes in stock (we do have many resistance trainers to be used with your existing bike in stock) but we can certainly order this or any other product from CycleOps and other suppliers in for you anytime. Just come in and ask!)
Swix Tour Pack Grip Wax Set (posted Dec 11, 2008)
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If you're having some difficulty coming up with a $30 gift for that hard to buy for partner/sibling/friend/etc., and if that partner/sibling/friend/etc. happens to be a classic cross country skier, you're in luck - they'll always appreciate a grip wax set.
Like everything that we review on this page we like to have first hand use of the product by using it ourselves, and we can attest first hand to the convenience of this simple, packable wax set that can easily be used trail-side to give your skis a quick touch up.
The pack comes with a set of 3 grip wax tubes that cover a temperature range that can get you thru just about anything, from just below freezing to about as cold as it gets. It also comes with a cork for application and a scrapper, all held in a convenient little tote bag.
Having this pack in a pocket has saved us many times from an initially incorrect wax choice and has allowed us to carry on for a longer ski after our initial grip wax application wore off. Any way you slice it, it's a great way to spend $30, either on yourself or for someone you know.
Craft ProZero Zip Mock Neck (posted Dec 05, 2008)
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Well it looks like the cold might be here to stay for a bit so maybe it's time to review some of our cold weather wear. Nothing is more important in cold weather than your base layer. In fact we'd go so far as to say that if you're building up an active cold weather wardrobe from scratch it might be best to start with the base layer and use what you've got for an outer layer until you can spring for the complete ensemble. If the clothes closest to your body aren't doing their job the rest of your attire won't help much.
Craft's ProZero Zip Mock Neck (we've got men's and women's styles in stock) is an excellent choice as your primary cold weather base layer. Its fabric does a superb job of lifting perspiration away from the body, allowing it to vapourize before it clings to your skin and lowers your temperature. The fabric performs this job uniformly over your entire torso and arms by incorporating an almost seamless design, allowing the fabric to evenly stretch across your body as you can see in the pics above.
After a recent ski excursion, where yours truly dressed a little more warmly than the weather necessitated, my hands and head were quite sweaty and clammy from accumulated perspiration, but my ProZero Zip Mock Neck covered torso was dry and warm. Avoiding one uncomfortable ski outing was well worth the purchase of this excellent base layer top.
Exel P1 World Loppet QLS Ski Poles (posted Nov 28, 2008)
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Exel recently introduced a simple yet somewhat revolutionary hand strap system for their racing and performance nordic ski poles: The QLS (Quick Release System). Actually a few other manufacturers have attempted to come up with a quick release system for ski straps over the years, but Exel's is arguably the best.
Simple loop straps, currently found mostly on more entry level poles, can still be effectively used to ski efficiently. Fancier straps that are more form fitted to the palm of your hand can do a better job of holding your hand in the correct position relative to the pole's handle and can do a better job of staying in place, but they are more cumbersome to get in and out of. If you're often stopping to make trail side adjustments, or especially if you're skiing with a dog or children who may need hands-on attention from time to time, it's nice to be able to get out of the straps quickly.
The Exel QLS offers the best of both worlds. They incorporate a high-end strap that fits snuggly with a simple quick release mechanism that allows you to keep the strap Velcro'd to your hand while disengaging from the pole's handle. It's a bit hard to explain in text, but hopefully if you click on the pics above and look at the triangular wedge that fits into the handle you'll get the basic idea - it's simple really. One of the coolest benefits of the QLS feature: You can wear the straps over your gloves in the car on the way to the trail, and once trail side you don't have to worry about fumbling with the straps at all (often a frustration on really cold days). You simply click the straps into the poles and away you go.
The QLS is available on a number of Exel poles, but we brought in some of the higher-end P1 World Loppet's because we got a good deal from our distributor and we're passing the savings on to you. The MRSP on these poles is $170, but we're selling them for just $120. We have many sizes in stock right now so feel free to come down to the shop to check this system out for yourself. We think they're a great, relatively low cost upgrade that may make your skiing that much more pleasurable.
Masi Soulville SS (posted Nov 19, 2008)
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The new Masi Soulville SS came in recently and we got to take it on a quick test ride before the streets got icy. The steel frame and fork have that lively but not too soft feel we've come to expect from many well-built steel rigs, and we found that the level of plushness was ideal for a serious commuter - it felt solid and efficient yet compliant and relaxed enough that using it to cruise to the local supermarket or late-night hangout in jeans didn't seem out of place, but pushing hard in cycling-purposeful attire on the way to work made sense too. The same goes for the geometry. The Soulville is fairly relaxed with a reasonably long wheelbase and a relatively casual fork rake / headtube angle, so it keeps its line while balancing your reusable grocery bags on both sides of the handlebar, but it still has an ok amount of agility. And, there's enough frame and fork clearance to accommodate wide and plush 40c tires to take the harshness out of city roads.
The drivetrain is a simple single speed affair, with a basic square taper bottom bracket (read: easy and cheap to replace) and single speed specific chainring mated to a fixie / freewheel flip-flop hub.
The aesthetics on this bike are excellent: A sparkly but still understated paint job with clean and simple graphics, a slightly arched top tube blending perfectly into the bent seat stays, and leather grips that match the saddle.
If you're looking for a new commuter or a bike for using to just 'cruise around' but still want something that feels high end, and you want your bike to have a little bit of understated character, the Masi Soulville SS might be the one for you. Feel free to come and check it out today.
Blackburn Flea LED Headlight (posted Oct 24, 2008)
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This is one of the coolest things we've seen in a while: The Blackburn Flea is an LED headlight that has a couple of brightness settings as well as a flash setting for its Anna Paquin4 powerful LED lights, but the really cool part is how the lights are powered. A very small rechargeable battery housed within the main light unit can be recharged using conventional alkaline batteries. Even discarded, no longer usable batteries (like the ones you're always having to replace in your television remote or wireless mouse) have a little energy left in them and can be used to recharge the Blackburn Flea. Once charged the Flea lasts for approximately 3 hours in normal mode. A new D cell battery can provide 30 charges to the Flea (we haven't yet had time to calculate the number of charges provided by a used battery, but obviously that will depend greatly on the amount of use the battery has had).
So if you're looking for another way to be environmentally friendly the Blackburn Flea might be a great choice for you. With the days still getting shorter (and Daylight Saving ending soon) there's even more reason to have a reliable light on your bike, so check out the Flea, and other options, that we have in stock today.
Minoura VFS Magnetic & Fluid Trainer (posted Oct 17, 2008)
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Sadly, for many of us we're closer to the time of year when our bikes stay indoors for the season. Of course this also means that ski season is approaching, and there's no reason we can't still get in some outdoor winter bike riding, so the upcoming winter is anything but a negative thing. Still, in the winter it is admittedly harder to keep up that cycling-specific fitness you've worked so hard at all summer.
We can at least help you a bit with your winter cycling fitness by stocking a variety of indoor bike trainers, including the Minoura VFS trainer pictured above. No, it's not the same as riding outside, but as far as indoor training goes this model is pretty good. The Minoura VFS does a good job of simulating the feel of the natural "exponential power curve" you experience when riding on the road. That is to say that unlike most magnetic trainers that offer a fairly linear increase in resistance as your rpm's increase, the VFS provides exponentially increasing resistance that substitutes for other factors on the road that make riding at higher speeds exponentially more difficult (like, for instance, increased wind drag).
Don't get us wrong - magnetic trainers that offer a more linear resistance will still do an excellent job of helping you workout thru the long winter months, and can be had for a few dollars less than this model, but for just $340 the Minoura VFS Mag & Fluid trainer is a really good deal that exposes you to the upper end of indoor bike trainers.
The VFS also features a very sturdy and stable design with a heavy flywheel and easily foldable legs that allow you to store the trainer just about anywhere or easily carry it to your next group workout.
Redline Conquest Disc (posted Oct 07, 2008)
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We're in the midst of cyclocross season, so why not review another cyclocross bike? We have just one of these Redline Conquest Disc bikes in stock (size 56 cm, we think), as a hold-over form last season, so we're selling it at a huge discount - Reg. price is $1500, on sale for just $1000!
In terms of ride characteristics this Conquest feels the same as the Conquest Pro reviewed further down this page - it has the same geometry and tube materials, except for an aluminum front fork. What's more interesting though is the disc brake set-up. Although the current version of the Redline Conquest comes with disc tabs to allow you to convert the bike over to discs if you wish, the version pictured above comes with disc specific hubs and an excellent set of Avid mechanical disc brakes as stock equipment. Considering what many people use their cyclocross bike for, whether actually racing in cyclocross events or simply as daily commuters, the benefits of disc brakes in adverse riding conditions make this bike a real find. And if the size fits, you can't beat the price. Feel free to check it, and the other cyclocross bikes we have in stock, out before cyclocross season passes us by for another season.
Specialized Langster Chicago (Gangster) (posted Sept 21, 2008)
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The Specialized Langster Chicago (also called the Gangster) is one in the series of Langster bike made by Specialized. There are 5 Langster models in all (and even more oversees), all with the same core frame and drivetrain set-up but with different bars, levers, and aesthetic touches. We've previously reviewed another Langster edition, the New York, in this space, but this week we're taking a look at its mid-western cousin.
As with the New York, the Chicago is made for urban commuting, with tight geometry yielding a snappy ride. The Chicago's looks are substantially tamer than the New York, employing a flat black paint job on most of the component, and the bars are substantially wider (and have a slight rise) making the Chicago a slightly tamer version within the Langster line-up. We didn't get to test ride the New York much in the spring but we were able to take the Chicago out for a bit more of a ride and confirmed that it's a very agile, responsive ride. Even at it's regular price of $860 it's a great deal, but at our current sale price of $688 it's a steal (if we were witty we'd come up with some kind of gangster joke here, but we're not, so we won't). We've just got one left though so if you're interested you should come by the shop soon, otherwise you can fagetaboutit.
Redline Conquest Pro (posted Sept 11, 2008)
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Cyclocross season is upon us, so we figured we may as well review a cyclocross bike this week. Redline makes some of our favourite cyclocross bikes, in part because they all seem to be such good deals. While their lowest end (and still very race worthy) cx bike comes in at well under $1000, the relatively high-end Conquest Pro pictured above will set you back a very reasonable $2050. For that price you get Sram Rival components mated with an FSA Gossamer crankset, Avid short-pull canti brakes, Ritchey Pro wheels, and a few other nice bits.
The frameset rides like, well, like a cyclocross bike, which is to say that the geometry is pretty tight and 'racy' for an off-road machine but still stable enough that it doesn't feel squirrelly. It's a bit beefier than the average road bike frame and the bottom bracket is a little higher, and the tire clearance is of course ample. The top tube is fairly horizontal (somewhat depending on the frame size) to allow for easy shouldering, and the bike is lightweight enough that carrying it while running over barriers is a minimal burden. In other words, this bike is built like a cyclocross bike should be. This may sound like faint praise, but on a recent test ride of this bike it was noted that the rider didn't think much about the bike at all; instead the stable, straighforward handling of the bike allowed the rider to focus on the terrain. Anyone who's ridden a cyclocross race knows that focusing on the terrain, and not thinking about the bike, is a good thing.
We like the fact that the Conquest Pro comes spec'd with Sram Rival components. One of the benefits of Sram road components is supposed to be the 1:1 actuation ratio of the drivetrain that is theoretically less susceptible to malfunction in muddy conditions because shifting guffaws are less accentuated with an even ratio compared to the 2:1 ratios of other manufacturers. (Editor's note: I recently purchased a Sram Rival drivetrain and have used it on the road and trails, but have not yet tested it in muddy conditions. None-the-less the theory sounds reasonable - reasonable enough for me to buy the product for myself). Hopefully we'll see some mud fly this fall and will get a good test ride in, but from the testing we've done so far we can say that the Conquest Pro as a whole provides a great ride with few, if any, compromises, at a mid-range price.
Trek Pure Trike (posted Sept 2, 2008)
We don't sell many adult trikes, at least compared to the two-wheeled bikes that move thru our shop daily, but we do see a few adult three-wheelers come and go every season. Among the adult trikes we see every year there is a surprising range in quality, from home made jobs that are of, shall we say 'questionable' design, to higher-end, good quality rigs.
Thru the years we've brought in a few different adult trike models ourselves, but most recently we've brought in a few Trek Pure Trikes. Unlike some other models that were difficult to maintain and service the Pure's are a relative pleasure to work on. They're well built, the drive train is easily accessible, they use somewhat standard parts, and they're not that heavy. Well, to be accurate they're still quite a bit heaver than a racing two-wheeler, but they're pretty good compared to some of the other trikes we've worked on.
Of course what probably matters most to our customers is how the trike rides, and we can say that the Pure performs better than any other trike we've taken for a spin. It tracks well, it turns easily and is maneuverable in relatively tight areas, and it's smooth. Unlike many other trikes that seem to have an inherent issue with chain slack (owing to a long chain and/or a double chain system) the Pure engages quickly when you apply force to the pedals and pedaling force is applied evenly to both rear wheels.
The Pure comes with possibly the best bike basket we've ever seen. It's large, deep, and solid. And let's not forget the saddle!...made from what appears to be half of a synthetic cow the leather-like outer material covers a plush cushioning that makes us want to buy one of these trikes to use in front of the tv set at home. You've got to sit on it to full appreciate it.
Over the summer we've tried to keep one or two Pure Trikes in stock, and we've sold a few this season. As autumn approaches we may not have them in stock but if you're interested in this model feel free to come down and talk to us about it. We're always happy to make a special order.
Oakley's (posted Aug 5, 2008)
We've reviewed a model or two from Oakley on this site in the past, but today we thought it might be worth while to review the Oakley brand as a whole. No, we haven't worn every single pair of Oakley's made (besides which, Oakley is constantly introducing new models so we'd never keep up) but we've worn enough to know a bit about the brand.
There are many things we like about Oakley's, but at their core the High Definition Optics (HDO) is what sets these sunglasses apart from many other brands. Without getting too technical (you can go to Oakley's page here for the technical detail) HDO provides crisp images and prevents image shifting. And of course HDO provides 100% UV protection (an absolute must) and excellent impact resistance.
On the slightly less technical side, Oakley makes sunglasses that fit really well, with many shapes and sizes of models to choose from and even a smaller fitting "Asian Fit" version of many models. Not every model is going to work well for your specific face but there are almost certainly a number of designs that will fit you well.
We could go on for some time here, but the last thing we'll point out in this posting is that Oakley makes many non-sport-specific models that incorporate all the 'sport' features like excellent fit and image clarity. While models like the Flak Jacket and the M Frame have become ubiquitous in the worlds of cycling, track and field, beach volleyball, and on and on, sometimes we like to look a little less like we're ready for the next competition and a little more like we're ready for a night on the town. Oakley has many casual styles that look good on the patio on Corydon or at The Forks while still not betraying their competitive heritage. For obvious reasons (we're a bike and ski shop) we stock mostly sports models, but virtually anything on Oakley's site is available to us and special ordering usually only takes a few days. So, if you see something you like online or on the streets feel free to come into the shop to ask about price, options (including the Oakley customizing options) and availability, and we'd be happy to order something specifically for you.
Chain Lube (posted July 25, 2008)
Without getting too technical on you the simplest difference between bike lubes and other lubes is that bike lubes are designed to shed as much road grit as possible. The biggest problem with lubing your chain and drive train is that you want to make sure the bike's moving parts have a buffer of lube between them so they don't wear against each other, but you don't want the lube to attract grit that will increase wear and defeat the whole purpose of putting lube on in the first place.
We have many different lubes in stock, including Tri Flow, Pedro's, ProLink, Phil's Tenacious Oil, and White Lightening Clean Ride, Wet Ride and Epic Ride. Our full time mechanics tend to use Tri Flow when tuning your bikes. Your illustrious webguy (i.e. the guy typing here) uses White Lightening Clean Ride, so you get to read more about the product I use. I like White Lightening Clean Ride because it's a dry, waxed based lube that creates a dry protective film on the exterior of your chain that slowly peels off while you ride, which means it doesn't attract much grit in the first place and it sheds the grit that it does attract. If the road or trail conditions are really nasty wax lube needs to be applied a little more frequently than oil based lubes, but there's a lot less chain cleaning required due to less buildup, so I think the trade-off is more than worth it.
I suppose one draw back with a wax lube is that it's not great to mix it with other oil based lube, so that could in part explain why our full time mechanics prefer the oil-based Tri Flow, seeing as many of the bikes they work on already have liberal amounts of oil-based lube applied.
Regardless of preference though, we have plenty of lube choices in stock, all for about $8 - $12 each. So the next time you're in the shop picking up a new pair of shorts or a spare tube make sure you grab some bike-specific lube. Your bike, and our mechanics, will thank you for it.
Schwalbe Messenger Bag (posted July 15, 2008)
In the last few years there's been a proliferation of new messenger style bags brought to market, and we see many, many couriers, commuters, students, etc., using messenger bags to haul stuff around town. As the number of bags out there has increased so have the style options, allowing you to choose a bag that reflects your personal taste as much as your functionality.
One interesting and, as far as we know, unique style to arrive at our shop is the Schwalbe Messenger Bag, made in part out of a real Schwalbe tire. It's a pretty simple bag with a medium volume, and the requisite over-the-shoulder and accompanying across-the-body strap. One really nice feature: It holds up well in heavy rain. It was inadvertently tested in very heavy rains going 80 km/h on a motorcycle in heavy traffic with road grit flying everywhere, and the contents of the bag stayed completely dry the whole time.
And at just $59 for the bags it's one of the less expensive options out there. We've got a few in stock at the moment so feel free to come and check them out today.
Steelwool Cork Tape (posted June 17, 2008)
As the illustrious editor of this site I try to be fairly unbiased when reviewing products, but today I'm going to just come out and say that I've always found cork bar tape to be the best option out there. I figure if I must take a stand for something this is a pretty benign subject, but if I've deeply offended your synthetic tape sensibilities you can always find an assortment of synthetic tape at the shop too.
At any rate, I've always loved the feel of real cork. It's reasonably grippy but not too plush, it provides good cushion but your hands still feel firm on the bars, it doesn't absorb too much sweat but doesn't get slick when wet either. What could be better? The folks at Steelwool have answered that question by offering cork tape that looks like cork tape. Cool. If you've got a retro single speed, a classic road bike with fine Italian components and chrome lugs, or if you're just looking for a bit of a different look pick up a set of Steelwool cork tape rolls today.
I snapped up a set of these as soon as they arrived to adorn a custom steel single speed with gum brake hoods, and can say first hand that the look and feel of the cork take is the perfect compliment to the feel of the bike.
Also pictured above (please excuse the attempt at 'art'...we were bored) are cork mountain bike grips. We haven't tried them yet but thought we'd point out that we have a cork alternative for the off-road set too.
Knog Frog Superbright Microlight (posted June 02, 2008)
This isn't exactly the most technical review ever posted on this site, but sometimes the simple things get overlooked, and the Knog Frog Superbright Microlight is nothing if not simple, and that's a good thing (we also have an affection for products with rhyming words in their description).
Flashing LED lights caused a bit of a mini-revolution in the cycling world a few years ago because suddenly it was extremely inexpensive, convenient, and efficient to add lights to the front and rear of your bicycle (remember the generator-style lights of yesteryear that were powered by rubbing against your tire or rim? - a cool idea but not exactly efficient). Most LED bike lights come with mounting brackets that allow them to be placed on the bike's handlebar or seat post. Knog Frogs take design one step further by allowing you to attach them virtually anywhere on the bike by simply looping the rubber end of the Frog around almost any tube on the bike and clipping it closed.
The Frogs come in an assortment of rubber colours to match your bike or your mood, and come in two LED light colours, white and red. All are just $13 each. They can easily be transferred from bike to bike if you ride more than one but at that price you may just want to buy a couple more (why not collect all the colours?).
Avid BB5 Mechanical Disc Brakes (posted May 19, 2008)
Although for many applications we still love a good set up linear pull (v) brakes, there's no disputing that disc brakes have more raw stopping power and operate better in wet conditions. While many mountain bikes today are coming stock with hydraulics disc brakes there are still some advocates of the simplicity and low maintenance of mechanical disc brakes. If mechanical discs are your thing you can't go wrong with Avid's product line, including the Avid BB5's.
If you're buying these brakes aftermarket their first highlight is the ease with which they set up. Sizing the length of cable and housing is no different than when setting up linear pull brakes, and the BB5's can even use the same brake levers that you were using for your rim brakes. There's no worry of dealing with bleeding a hydraulic line with the correct fluids so you're on to setting up the Avid BB5 brake calipers in a minute or two. The calipers are also a cinch to set up (simply tighten the brake caliper to the fork or frame bosses such that the fixed pad is a small distance from the brake rotor and then adjust the moving pad using a dial to place it a small distance from the other side of the rotor).
Once you've got the brakes set up you'll notice that, although they may not feel quite as smooth as their hydraulic cousins, they have a very firm braking feel and a good amount of spring action to instantly retract the pad from the rotor when you release the lever. On the fly adjustments are easy by using brake lever barrel adjusters to fine tune the cable length and by using the inboard pad dial to adjust pad position.
We usually have Avid BB5's in stock, and if not we can order them in quickly, so if you're in the market for some simple mechanical disc brakes consider trying these ones out. We doubt you'll be sorry.
Surly 1 x 1 Frameset (posted May 02, 2008)
In the last few year single speed bikes have become more and more popular. In Manitoba this mainstreaming of what was once a very niche market makes a lot of sense, considering we have some pretty flat terrain. We can also have some pretty inclement weather, and if you're one of those riders who likes to extend their riding season into the snowy weather a single speed drivetrain can hold up much better than its geared cousin as ice and road grit starts to accumulate.
While many new single speed brands, and new single speed specific models from established brands, have popped up recently there are a few manufacturers out there who were making them before they were all the rage, and Surly is one of them. The Surly 1x1 frameset is their basic, rigid, mountain bike frame made for just one gear. The steel frame and fork accepts rim or disc brakes, there's plenty of tires clearance so you can use pretty much any size of rubber you wish, the frame geometry is suspension corrected for an 80mm suspension fork in case you want to add some cushion to the front end, there are plenty of braze-ons for racks and fenders, and the classic horizontal dropouts allow for easy single speed chain tensioning.
As for the ride?...Surly's own website says that the 1x1 rides "like a bike". That is to say that it's a pretty middle of the road affair, and that's a good thing. It's not too aggressive, but not too laid back. It tracks well and is fairly snappy but it's not squirrelly. (Editor's note: I own a Surly 1x1, and have at the same time owned many other mountain bikes, including expensive steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber frames set up as bikes that were rigid, as bikes with front suspension, and dual suspension, and at the end of the day I always seem to return to my 1x1). At the end of the day the 1x1 seems to be the bike that can do almost anything for you off road (assuming you're not into hucking 40 foot drops).
But the best part of the Surly 1x1 might be the price. At just $450 for the frame and fork you can afford to build it up however you wish. If you're looking to build up an inexpensive single speeder with a few parts you've got lying around the basement then go right ahead. If you want to buy that expensive wheelset and the polished, sealed headset you've always dreamt of you can use the money you saved on the frame purchase to indulge with the components. Either way, the Surly 1x1 allows you to build up a great single speed mountain bike that should take you pretty much anywhere you want to go.
Cliff Bar (posted April 21, 2008)
It's hard to remember what we all did before energy bars were invented. We do recall packing GORP or bananas in our jersey pockets before a big ride, and there's nothing wrong with continuing to use those old standards today, but it sure is nice to also have a product that is specifically designed to satisfy our energy needs while out on a long ride.
Cliff Bars are one of our favourite such products. Not only are they an easily digestible source of energy mid-ride, they also taste great (and come in many excellent flavours). The Cliff Bar company is very serious about using organically grown foods without the use of toxic pesticides or synthetic chemicals, and ensures that their product is free of trans fats, hydrogenated oils, and high fructose corn syrups. They use whole and all-natural ingredients including a well-balanced mix of whole grains, protein, and fibre.
All of this is good from a nutritional point of view, and it helps reduce impact on our environment, but the truth is that it also makes the Cliff Bar go down better, and at the end of the day that's what's foremost on our minds half way into the first century ride of the season. 'Real' ingredients just seem to slide down our throats a little better than overly processed stuff. So if you're looking for a nutritionally sound and easy to digest (and tasty) energy bar with an environmental and social conscience look no further than Cliff Bar. We have plenty of them on our shelves right now so be sure to stop by as you head out on the next ride.
Specialized Langster New York (posted April 06, 2008)
New for '08, Specialized has come out with 5 Langster models, each tailored around a different major city, and 2 more models: One basic edition, and the other a high end S-Works frameset. We currently have in stock the New York model, and as the picture indicates it's nothing if not yellow (click on the image for a larger view).
In fact the frame and fork, high flange hubs, rims, bar tape, seat accents and rails, and even the chain (not pictured) are bright yellow. While Specialized is clearly going for the New York taxi cab look the side benefit to this aesthetic is that it's clearly visible in traffic.
As we've mentioned here before we like to post product reviews of product that we've extensively tested, so we should admit that the test for this Langster only involved a few quick spins up and down the road (and a few more around the shop) owing to some untimely late season snowfall. With that acknowledged we can say that the initial ride confirms what Specialized claims: The Langster is a fast, very responsive commuter. This bike is probably not for the casual rider - you don't have to be pro or put in lots of mileage, but you do have to have confidence to handle the responsiveness and speed provided by tight geometry, slim tires, and ultra narrow flat bars (the bars can always be changed to something wider, or even to wide drops or moustache style bars if you're looking for something a little tamer). But if you like a zippy ride that can whip around pot holes and parked cars nimbly, and want a relatively high-geared single speed (the bike comes stock with a 42/16 gear ratio, but of course that can be changed easily too) this may just be your ride.
If you'd like to check out a fast city bike that's sure to get noticed come down to the shop and take a look at the Langster New York, now selling for $860, up close.
Surly Travelers Check (posted March 28, 2008)
We'll just excuse for the moment that our good American friends at Surly don't know how to spell "cheque" using the proper Queen's English, and instead we'll focus on what a great idea the Surly Travelers Check is. (For that matter shouldn't the word "Travelers" be possessive?...oh well.) The Surly Cross Check is a perennial a favourite among no-nonsense riders looking for an inexpensive frameset that can be set up as a cyclocross, commuter, or general road or light trail bike, either with gears or as a single speed. Surly took this frameset and made it even more versatile by making the easier to pack Travelers Check.
By adding a couple of S&S couplers to the bike, one to the top tube and the other to the down tube, the main frame can actually be split in half. This means that the whole bike can be packed up into a much smaller space. Two immediate small package benefits come to mind: (1) When properly broken down the bike should be able to fit into a non-oversized case allowing you to take it onto an airplane without incurring the nasty extra bike luggage fees that most airlines impose, and (2) the bike is easier to pack in the back of your vehicle on those tight trips where you have a few bikes, the kids, the pet, the tent, the food and cooler, and whatever else you need to fit into your fuel friendly, but luggage unfriendly subcompact hatch.
Of course this is only a cool idea if the couplers actually work, and we're pleased to report that they really do. While they of course add a little bit of weight to the bike (but only about 8 oz) they are very easy to use (one simple tool that comes with the bike is all that is required to loosen the couplings before you use your hands to loosen them the rest of the way) and they fit together so snuggly that there is no noticeable frame flex at the coupling joints at all.
There are other bike frames with coupling systems out there - the Ritchey Breakaway comes to mind as another great example that we've brought into the shop before - and you can always have custom couplings installed on your prized steel or titanium bike frame, but Surly wins the prize for making the most economical stock coupling frame we've come across - we're selling the frameset for just $1240. We have one Travelers Check frame in stock now, and anticipate a few more to arrive soon. If you're looking for a solution to high airline luggage costs, or if you just want to see how the couplings work, feel free to come down to the shop anytime to check the frame out.
Catlike Whisper Plus (posted March 05, 2008)
We figure you'll think that the Catlike Whisper Plus either looks really cool or really dorky, or maybe even both (let's face it, some of us are already wearing Lycra shorts and brightly coloured jerseys in public view, so just embrace the dorkiness). The Whisper Plus is indeed one of the most radical looking designs out there, but aesthetics aside the design is second to none in terms of allowing for good air ventilation. In fact studies have been mentioned during pro cycling television coverage that suggests wearing a Whisper Plus actually cools the head more than not wearing a helmet at all (sorry, we don't have a link to the study, so you'll just have to take our word for it, or try it yourself).
A number of guys from the shop own these helmets and can attest first hand to how cool they feel. Of course the most important factor of any helmet isn't how cool it feels (or looks) but how well it fits. Without a good fit the helmet won't offer much protection. While everybody's head is shaped differently and all helmets are not necessarily right for all heads, the Whisper Plus has an excellent retention system that is easily adjustable and fits snuggly on most heads. It's also worth pointing out that the helmet is extremely light, which of course makes it all the more comfortable.
Looking like you ride on a Pro Tour team (the Whisper Plus can indeed be found in the pro peleton and on top of World Cup mountain bike riders) doesn't come cheap. Catlike's top helmet costs $320. If that's a little too high for your mid pack-sensibilities then no worries...Catlike makes a number of less expense models that still perform very, very well, and of course we stock helmets from other manufacturers as well. The least expensive (and still effective) helmets in the shop cost just a fraction of our top model, and will do just as good a job of protecting your head, but if you want the same helmet that the pros are wearing we have a few Catlike Whisper Plus helmets in stock now in a variety of colours to match your pro bike.
Specialized Toupe Saddle (posted Feb 25, 2008)
While saddles are admittedly a personal choice where some just fit right and some just don't, and where a good fit varies wildly from person to person, the Specialized Toupe saddle is a favourite of ours that seems to be fit many people very well. That's a good thing because this is also one of the lightest and best looking saddle around, and you've got 3 different width and two different colour options.
With hollow titanium rails, and an ultrathin (but somehow still comfy) carbon reinforced shell the saddle is pretty minimalist, but the choices are not: There are 130mm, 143mm, and 155mm width models, all in white and black. The 130mm weighs in at just 150 grams. Our webguy and his wife have 6 of these saddles between then and can attest first hand to their comfort on the road and on the trails, whether doing a lap or two of Bur Oak or out for a 100km road ride down a local highway, or trying to keep up with the cyclocross pack at one of the many local races.
In preperation for spring we happen to have a few 130mm and 143mm models in both black and white right now. At $205.00 they're not the cheapest saddle out there, but for a top end seat found on pro bikes everywhere they're surprisingly reasonably priced.
Salomon Vitane 7 Classic Pilot Boots and binding system (posted Feb 12, 2008)
Are your ski boots not quite going to make it thru to the end of the ski season, or are you already thinking ahead to next year? If you're looking for a classic ski boot upgrade now is a great time to consider the Salomon line of classic boots and bindings, owing to their new standard: the SNS Pilot 2-axes system.
One excellent example of this new design is the Salomon Vitane 8 Classic Pilot Boot mated with the SNS Pilot Sport Classic binding. The 2-axes system offers two distinct features that improve on its predecessor. First of all, having two solid and continuous points of contact between the boot and binding allows for much more torsional rigidity, which translates to more control of your skis. Second, the 'rear' axes (about an inch or so behind the 'front' axes at the tip of your toe) incorporates a spring loaded link that allows you to pivot your foot forward on your toe as you push off on your ski at the beginning of your stride, and provides tension to help pull your foot and ski back together as you bring your ski forward again at the end of the stride. This spring loaded link replaces the rubber bumper that used to be present on the binding just in front of the toe. While to rubber bumper worked adequately to help force the foot and ski back together the spring loaded link is definitely an improvement. On higher end SNS Pilot binding systems you can even adjust the spring tension to suit your personal preference.
The Vitane 7 boots featured here are an excellent high-performance recreational boot. They're relatively lightweight, they are exceptionally easy to lace up (always a good thing if you're fumbling around in cold weather) and have a semi-rigid cuff that offers excellent support while not feeling restrictive. The Vitane 7 is the women's version of the equally impressive men's Active 7.
With a good month or two of skiing left this season you've still got time to come down to the shop to check out the new Pilot boot and binding systems available, whether it's to purchase now or to dream for next year. We hope to see you soon.
Wigwam Lite Hiker Merino Wool Socks (posted Jan 29, 2008)
Back in the day many of us asked the simple, white, cotton, athletic tube sock to work in pretty much every situation. While the tube sock was with us when we made the prefect cross during the big soccer match, when we learned to smash a tennis ball just like Roger Federer (or back then it would have been Ivan Lendle or Stefan Edberg, or Aurther Ash if you're really old) or maybe even on our first mountain bike ride (circa mid 80's), our eyes have been opened a bit since then. How much better would our kick, our serve, and our first offroad bike excursion have been if we had purpose-made socks? We'll never know.
But that was the past. Today we have all sorts of great socks to choose from for every type of activity. At Olympia we carry, among other brands, Wigwam socks. Wigwam offers an almost limitless line of socks that suit every condition. One of our favourites for this time of year is the Lite Hiker, made with Merino Wool. The sock is light enough to easily fit inside your ski boot or winter cycling shoe but still thick and warm enough to keep your toes toasty in our famously cold winters. The wool is very breathable so you can avoid perspiration build up as you heat up from physical activity and the sock runs just high enough up your calf to prevent snow or windchill from contacting your bare skin. The sock has a flexible band mid-foot to allow for good movement, but it's still sturdy in the toe and foot in order to last for many winter adventures.
So set those tube socks aside (they've had a good life) and introduce yourself to WigWam. You're performance will only improve.
RC Waxing
Iron (posted Jan 16, 2008)
The RC Waxing Iron is arguably one of the easier products to review, mainly because it's pretty darn straightforward. If you'd like to explore the art of hot waxing your own cross country skis you'll need an iron. You could try to get the job done with a regular household clothes iron, but you'll find that a non ski-specific iron will have a shortcoming or two. The most significant issue will likely be that your regular iron propably has holes in the bottom which can be used to steam your clothes. Steaming is not a function required for ski waxing and unfortunately the holes only serve to get clogged with wax and/or create an uneven waxing surface when using the iron on skis. The RC Waxing Iron, on the other hand, has an even surface that creates a smooth wax coat.
A second issue is even temperature control. Although most clothes irons have temperature adjustments they aren't always that good at keeping the temperature steady, and many of them have additional settings that can complicate things a bit. Ski glide wax should be applied using a very even temperature (the temperate may however depend on the type of wax being applied) and the RC Waxing Iron has a simple temperature dial and keeps a very constant temperature, so setting the temperature is as simple as moving the dial to the correct spot and then waiting a minute or two for the iron to heat up to the precise temperature you require.
Pretty simple really, which is good considering the folklore behind ski waxing is anything but. Don't be too apprehensive - if you can sift thru all of the pet theories it's not really that difficult to hot wax your own skis. Pick up an RC Waxing Iron and learn for yourself.
Learn to Nordic Ski DVD (posted Jan 08, 2008)
If you're brand new to cross country skiing there are plenty of ways to learn. You could sign up with a local club or find a personal instructor, you could find a friend who is patient enough to show you a few things, or you could just head out into the snow and learn by trial and error. Each method has their pros and cons. But, if you'd like to learn a few things in the privacy of your own living room before you head out and make a fool of yourself (don't worry...you'll look silly the first few outings anyway) you can pick up a Learn to Nordic Ski DVD from us.
This is the first DVD in a series of DVD's on cross country skiing that we carry. Usually we use the Product Review page of our website to promote products that we unreservedly love and have tested thoroughly - in this case we've 'tested' (that is, watched) the product, and we think it is a good value for the first time skier, but it comes with our own little disclaimer. The DVD menu lists 3 different features. At first glance it appears that each feature may teach progressive ski techniques, with the 1st feature being the most basic and the 3rd feature the most advanced. While this sort of holds true each feature is actually designed to stand alone as a crash course in skiing for beginners. Each feature is hosted by someone different and shot and produced independent of the others.
But here's the real disclaimer: The 1st feature of the DVD isn't really that good. With our apologies to the host, who we know is an accomplished competitive skier and may be a great personal teacher, this segment feels almost a little too basic and the production qualities are pretty low. Of course you may disagree and/or may find this segment helpful so of course feel free to check it out. For what it's worth though we think that the 2nd and 3rd features are of value and do a good job of covering the basic skills of skiing, and can be used as a mental reference while you're out on the trails the first few times.
Of course nothing substitutes getting out there and trying it for real, but if you'd like a little guidance at home first this might be just the thing for you.
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