rave for a great MO (mail-order? naw! actually, online and brick and mortar) bike parts company

Note: I spent money with these folks, I didn't get paid by them to write this.

I ordered a few parts from Universal Cycles this week just try them out. I needed bar tape replaced, and I figured if I was going to do that, I should consider replacing the fork at the same time, and if I do that, I should replace the headset too. I know, not logical at first, but I did get a really good deal on a 1" threaded (yep, threaded) carbon fork.

Anyways, I am impressed by UC's quick and easy price-matching system and their prices and even the shipping costs are reasonable.

I ordered this a day ago and this arrived this afternoon via UPS.



Well packed and quick delivery!

So here's the reasons why I am happy:
* good prices and ability to price-match
* good selection and easy-to-use web site
* quick shipping

Torker shots

Here are the pics from the Torker 2011 catalog that I'm in...

The electric-assisted T-450e.


The stylish T-530.

my latest crush...

LARA BARS

Why might I love them..?

* Perfect size for stuffing in a jersey pocket.

* Seemingly "just enough" to refuel without leaving you feel like you just ate a brick (like some other similar bars).

* A variety of flavors to choose from, including PB&J, lime pie, and coffee and chocolate-flavored offerings... nuts and fruit flavors too.

Only thing is they can be spendy... I think the best price I have seen (without buying a box of them) is 4 for $5.

I'm toying with finally making up my own bars, it's like baking a cookie (so I hear). Got any good recipes???

commuting in the fall

Jeez... I think I was spoiled from the summer's mild (well, summer sucked for us in the Seattle area generally) weather.

Riding to work this morning (and even last night on the way home) was cold! And DARK! Forget my little Spoks, it's time to bust out the helmet with the DiNotte lights on it!

Other things I'd like to note: I hate equally getting cable rub and worm guts on my frame.

WSDOT seeks volunteers for the annual bike count

WSDOT is seeking volunteers across the state to help count the number of people who walk or bike to their destinations. Information gathered will be used to track progress toward the state’s goal of increasing bicycling and walking in Washington and reducing the number of vehicle miles driven.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Cascade Bicycle Club are enlisting volunteers and organizations like FeetFirst and the Bicycle Alliance of Washington to count the numbers of people bicycling and walking on paths, bike lanes, sidewalks, and other facilities on Oct. 5, 6 and 7.

More details are here.

TORKER 2011 catalog is out

See if you can find me.

bike parking

Do you find it hard to find bike parking where you live?

If it is available, is it optimal?

How much of a part does bike parking availability and style of bike parking play in your decision to bike for a trip? Is parking or lack thereof a big barrier to making bike trips or are there other larger factors? If so, what are they?

Leave your comments on this subject if you wish.

I'd also be interested to know if anyone rides their bike to transit (train or bus) and then uses on-board or at-station bike rack facilities.