Bikeridr » Ken Hurd

Ode to the cycling jacket

Ken Hurd — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:35:31 +0000

For better or worse, I’m not one of those guys who has a jacket for every event. Sometimes I wish it were different, but this was the hand I was dealt… My clothing needs to multitask, and yes, that includes some of my cycling gear as well. Now, this isn’t to say that I’m going to rock my bib shorts to the next company picnic, but for something like a jacket, it needs to exist beyond the bike.

I'm not nearly 'snooty' enough to rock his bad boy.

Style vs. Utility. Form vs. Function. Call it what you will, it’s oftentimes a rare and wonderful occurrence when the two carefully meet and we’re able to reap the rewards of their lovechild.

Luckily, one of my favourite cycling garments seems to straddles this delicate balance perfectly.

The cycling jacket is perhaps one of the few almost perfectly designed articles of clothing. As evidence of my claim I call to bear the following five points:

Handy, out of the way pockets
Lightweight
Handles weather well
Complimentary fit
Perfect for new dads (you can fit an almost unlimited amount of bottles, binkies, and bobbins in those pockets ;-)

Truly the cycling jacket nears perfection, but it does however suffer from one fatal flaw which I think prevents it from being adopted as a mainstream article of clothing:

No front pockets

There’s simply no where to put your hands should they get a little nippy. On the bike this obviously poses no concern, since having your hands in pockets poses an arsenal of risks, but out and about town, it’s an entirely different matter. I’ve taken to simply carrying a light pair of gloves with me, which I store in my middle rear pocket but this may not be adequate for all users.

When I first headed down this path my main concern was fitting my Costanza wallet comfortably and still being able to drive with it. Thankfully, something in which you can easily cram a banana, power bar, cell phone and a handful of gels has more than enough room – And because I place it in the rear-side pocket, it swivels around comfortably when I drive ;-)

Out and about I’ve gotten numerous compliments both on the style and fit of my jacket as well as the practicality and uniqueness of the rear pockets.

Now, this type of gear multitasking may not be for everybody – especially the purists out there. But most people have a favourite piece of gear… What’s yours?

Cycling ‘Threads’

Top Ten for 2012

Ken Hurd — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:07:29 +0000

It just wouldn’t be the New Year if we didn’t crack things of with a Top Ten list!

The past year was a transitional year for both Sheldon and I, but was still full of great memories and lots of riding. Looking to 2012 we’re optimistic that it will be even more grand!

Out with the old and in with the new ;-)

Ken’s Top Ten

Sheldon’s Top Ten

No handed bike moves

Ken Hurd — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:22:47 +0000

As I sit here in the airport with a half-finished article I know isn’t going to be complete before I board, I thought I’d give you this to perk your spirits on Humpday… Enjoy!

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2011 Ultimate Cycling Gift Guide

Ken Hurd — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:50:23 +0000

Ah, the holidays, a time of excellent couplings… Family & friends, rum & eggnog, mistletoe & kisses… Who knows, maybe even a couple of gifts under tree. It is with this last thought that we bring you the Bikeridr 2011 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide.

Not content to simply give you a measly ‘Top Ten’ we’ve pulled some recommendations together for just about every type of cyclist on your list:

The alcoholics,
The ladies,
The men,
The classics,
The techies,
The spendy and
Those who just love the Christmas spirit

It is an epic list, to be sure, and I’m hoping that at least one of these items will satiate the desires of the cyclist on your Christmas list. If there’s something you think I’ve missed – Hit us up in the comments :-D

For the alcoholics:

PocketToolX MAKO Titanium Bike Tool: Made of Aerospace Titanium, the MAKO Bike Tool, named after one of the fastest shark species, will be the best bicycle tool that you have ever owned. Not only is it extremely light weight and compact but can be fully customized by you to best suit your bike. And features a handy-dandy bottle opener!
Screen Printed Belgian Beer Glasses: A true homage to cyclocross – you can enjoy your micro brewed delight in one of four Belgian beer styles.
Leather Wine Rack: This handmade leather bicycle wine rack is perfect for taking wine with you on the go. It easily attaches to any 1″ bike frame with antique brass fasteners, while the hidden clamping mechanism holds the bottle securely. The olive oil treated vegetable-tanned leather will only look better with age.
The Road Popper: Road ‘pops’ have never been easier! The Road Popper was designed it to fasten discreetly to the rails on the underside of the saddle to help keep your bike looking crisp. Finishes range from stainless steel, silver, gold plated, or antique bronze.
6 Pack Frame Cinch: For those not into the vino, this will be a near perfect substitute. Not into beer? No problem, a couple of these will work to secure your polo mallet as well :-)

For the ladies:

Ana Nichoola Apparel: Straight out of the UK – Carefully crafted, unique cycle clothing for the female form.
Women’s ¾ Bib Shorts: If Heidi likes ‘em, you probably will too ;-) Made from a luxury mesh material with a large cutaway section in the back to prevent overheating. There is also an elasticated pocket at the back of the bibs for small items.
Wool Cycling Caps: So stylish it should come with a lock. While waiting at intersections other riders may be forced to steal the cap from your head and ride into traffic to avoid your inevitable turn of speed and chasing them down.
Reflective scarf: You want to be seen but not look like an enormous dork? Then this range is just for you. Vintage fabrics combined with a sense of style and a hint of reflective will enable you to look good, be seen and avoid any crimes against fashion.
Riyoku Urban Bike Gear: Riyoko creates and builds stylish, comfortable and functional bike attire with the cyclist and their moving environment in mind. Support a local (Calgary) merchant!
Bike Spoke & Chain Roller Bracelet: Inspired by the trendies and their fixed-gear bikes, this single spoke and one chain roller bracelet is a great offset to the contemporary urban look. Looks great worn in multiples of two or three.
Crankbothers Multi 17: Sleek. Sexy. 17 features. 1 lightweight tool. Nuff said.

For the men:

Park Tool BBQ Set: A post-ride essential and a fun way to work with your favorite tools. Stainless steel with “pedal wrench” style and “cone wrench” style grilling tools that bring Park Tool Blue to the barbecue.
Bike Snob: Systematically & Mercilessly Realigning the World of Cycling: The Bike Snob treats readers to a laugh-out-loud rant and rave about the world of bikes and their riders, and offers a unique look at the ins and outs of cycling, from its history and hallmarks to its wide range of bizarre practitioners.
Joyride: Pedaling Toward A Healthier Planet: This great read tells the dramatic and enlightening behind-the-scenes story of how a group of determined visionaries transformed Portland into a cycling mecca and inspired the nation.
Strava – The Gift of Fitness: Strava makes a perfect and unique gift for any avid athlete – it’s the best way to log and analyze your fitness data, then compare and compete with friends online! Strava delivers a premium experience: no ads, unlimited storage of rides, and responsive customer support.
Cinelli Topographic Bar Tape: Much appreciated by pistards for its tacky, tennis-grip feel and luxury leather look, Cinelli Volée is MASH’s preferred tape for urban riding. This special co-branded edition features MASH’s signature use of topographic subject matter.
Repair Stand: An essential for any serious cyclist. I know one of these made my routine maintenance a lot less of a chore!
T-Shirts – Endurance Conspiracy / Twin Six: If there’s one thing the cyclist on your list is guaranteed to be missing, it’s enough cycling-related tees. Top up your supply with these great ones.
Great magazines:: Peloton for the roadies, Singletrack for those who favour knobby tires.
Scalextric Velodrome: For the kid at heart – Why race cars, when you can race bikes?! Specifically Great Britain replica track racers!

For the classics:

Vintage Merino Wool Jersey: Ah, what better than the cozy warmth of a merino jersey. Long sleeve, short sleeve, whatever the person on your list might prefer.
Raleigh Urban Bike: It might not be a classic yet, but it’s on it’s way. Done in the messenger style, the Raleigh Rush Hour is an urban bike in blank form. Fresh white, wood, silver, and trimmed with thick leather on the seats and bars, this bike begs to be settled into and utterly dogged.
Full Wood Fenders: Hand crafted wooden trim, for your bicycle.
Bike Chain Cufflinks: Your choice of Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo ;-)
Recycled Belt with Fixie Belt Buckle: Belt and belt buckle are totally constructed with recycled bicycle parts. The belt is made with a recycled bike tire and the buckle is made with a recycled bicycle cog, chain, and spokes… Heck, they’ll even make the belt out of your favorite worn tire if you like!
Rapha Silk Scarf: A timeless classic. The fabric has been treated with a special solution to make it sweat and shower resistant and the edges have been hand stitched for a luxury finish.

For the techies:

Garmin Vector: Measuring power where it matters, the Garmin Vector allows you to see the whole force of the pedal stroke. Calculating total power and cadence while reporting right and left leg power separately.
Garmin Edge 500: Loaded with data, Edge 500 tracks your distance, speed, location and elevation with high sensitivity GPS. Add an ANT+™ compatible heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensor or compatible power meter for a finely-tuned analysis of your ride.
Lupine Betty 12: A bundle of energy and tremendously bright as it is, our Betty plows even through the darkest night. When you switch it on for the first time, it does not only produce light but also this kind of wow that makes it unmistakably clear: Betty is the queen of the night.
Road ID: In the event of an accident, if you can’t speak for yourself, your Road ID will. It’s not just a piece of gear – it’s peace of mind.

For the spendy:

Rapha/Independent Fabrication XS: In 2008 Bill, Guy Andrews, John Bradley and Simon Richardson each rode the XS as they rode an homage to Anquetil’s Crazy Bet, tackling the Glandon, Galibier, Alp d’Huez and the Tourmalet over back-to-back sportives in France. This bicycle has to be considered one of the best ever for any rider racing a sportive.
Chris King Espresso Tamper: Born from an appreciation of the coffee making process as much as the coffee it produces. We worked in collaboration with the Portland, Oregon based America Barista & Coffee School to develop a professional grade espresso tamper with precise dimensions, exceptional feel, and the iconic shape that every cyclist recognizes as the very best.
Rêve Ultimate Grand Tour Experience: Ride a fully supported grand tour (read our synopsis here)
Ciclotte Exercise Bike: Featuring a complex dual satellite epicycloid transmission, a carbon-and-alcantara adjustable saddle, a touch-screen display, pedals placed closer to the saddle for correct biomechanics, a slender, unicycle-style frame, and unique carbon handlebars. Getting in shape never looked so good (or cost so much).

For the Christmas spirit:

Donate to World Bicycle Relief: A bicycle in the hands of a student, healthcare worker, or entrepreneur in rural Africa is truly life changing. The need is great. Help share The Power of Bicycles today. Make a one-time or recurring donation.

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Top Cross Bikes from Downeast Cyclocross 2011

Ken Hurd — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:02:52 +0000

Photo credit © Dave McElwaine/trailwatch.net

Finding the right bike isn’t always an easy task. Sometimes simply getting the bikes on to a level playing field can be pretty helpful when you want to start narrowing it down, or at least start understanding what you can get for a certain price point. FindTheBest.com – An online comparison tool, let’s you put your favorite rides side by side and help you make an informed decision.

Late last month, you may have seen the results from the Downeast Cyclocross Event in New Gloucester, Maine. Crossing the finish line first was Dylan McNicholas followed by Luke Keough and Justin Lindine. No doubt these guys are some of the best in Cyclocross biz, but to ride at their level, first look at what bikes they choose.

On the top of the podium, Dylan McNicholas was riding the Cannondale Super X SRAM Red. This bike is definitely one of the best in Cyclocross, with a tremendously lightweight frameset and a new full-carbon fork. Among Cannondale bikes, the SRAM Red model is the best performing if you are willing to pay a price steeper than the mountains you’ll ride.

Coming in second, Luke Keough cruised through the finish line on his Stevens Carbon Team DA. The Carbon Team bike offers a stiff and agile carbon fork and a more affordable price than the Cannondale Super X. With top components to go along with the carbon fork, the Stevens’ Carbon Team DA is a more affordable and reliable bike.

Rounding out the top 3, Justin Lindine rides the newest Redline Conquest Cabon Team. Similar to the Cannondale Super X, the Redline Conquest offers a super lightweight frameset for a cheaper price. Redline has been leading the charge in brake development for cyclocross. The Conquest delivers a strong braking power and a well-balanced frame that is ready for racing.

All three of the bikes that took the podium at the Downeast Cyclocross Event represent the best cyclocross bikes on the market. But to better understand their specs and how they differ, check out the comparison from FindTheBest:

Holland Cycles

Ken Hurd — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:43:42 +0000

A cool little film from Holland Cycles showing how their hand crafted ‘ExoGrid’ frames are built. From what I can tell in the video, it’s actually pretty crazy the amount of precision that must go into this.

What starts as a solid titanium tube has a distinct pattern of diamonds laser-cut out of it, which is in turn is filled by a high modulus carbon tube… It definitely looks interesting.

http://www.hollandcycles.com/

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Trans Andes Challenge

Ken Hurd — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:05:08 +0000

Perhaps the first time I’ve seen a stage race start literally from off a boat – This is a nice look at Team Jamis as they take on the Trans Andes Challenge.

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Alberta Cyclocross Wrap Up

Ken Hurd — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:58:57 +0000

Well kids… There’s only two more to go on our Alberta race calendars and then ‘cross season officially comes to a teary-eyed end. So come one, come all, because there are two great races on to finish off the season!

Devil Take the Hindmost (tech guide)

“The Devil” is definitely a unique format for a cyclocross race, but it promises to be loads of fun, and is also taking $5 from every entry and donating it to Bicycles for Humanity – If pain and suffering wasn’t enough, I’m sure supporting a good cause will tip the scales :-)

Here, the racing will be done heat style on a flat, non-technical oval ~400m in length. The first 8 heats determine the A/B racers, after which a fast pace, no holds barred elimination will ensue where only the fastest riders move into the finals.

To mix things up there will even be $20 primes given on the first lap, the last lap, the winners of each heat and those racers that do less than 5 laps… Pretty good chances to walk away with some cash-o-la!

There’s no pre-registration – Just show up and lay it out there! Race-day registration 10:30 at the Calgary Velodrome (don’t worry, the race isn’t on the velodrome track).

Beans ‘n Barley Halloween Cross (tech guide)

Dress up and throw down!!

Guaranteed to wrap the season on a high note, there will be prizes for best costume, a beer tent, chili station and free coffee & hot chocolate.

Now, if that weren’t enough there’s even a 50/50 draw for an entry to your choice of the Furious3 Moab, Whistler or Fernie! If you followed our coverage of this years inaugural Furious3 in Fernie, you can understand why we’re so excited about this one – Definitely worth a trip to Calgary for you out-of-towners :-)

Be sure to bring friends and family as in addition to the food and drink, there will be a fire pit to ensure you stay warm and both a newbie and a kid’s race.

Behind the Barriers

Ken Hurd — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:16:59 +0000

Now into it’s second season, Behind the Barriers is a behind the scenes look at Jeremy Powers and his adventures in the US cyclocross scene.

I vaguely remember watching one episode last year, but never really got into things. Now that it’s cross season again and I’m following things a little more closely I gave it another go, and I’m glad I did :-)

Although ‘jPow’ is currently riding for Rapha/Focus, I decided to start with Season 1 (2010) when he was racing for Cannondale-Cyclocrossworld.com. They’re only three episodes into season 2, but I have to say so far I found season 1 a little more entertaining… Mainly because of the hilarious relationship between Powers and Tim Johnson. It was a lot of fun watching them duke it out both on and off the course.

I have high hopes that season 2 is just getting warmed up, but it’s a fun way to stay up on the season, get a sense for what a lot of these guys are like and to get a glimpse into cyclocross at an elite North American level. It’s also fun to see the friendly rivalries between competitors like Ryan Trebon and Geoff Kabush :-)

For a cycling nerd like me there were some pretty hilariously entertaining moments in the series… Mainly because I can see the same sort of conversations and shenanigans happening with my buddies.

Powers is a pretty entertaining guy and the videos are pretty well done, So if you like cross – Give ‘er a look. The episodes aren’t too long (usually ~15-20min) and can be a nice way to start your day ;-)

Enjoy it all on Vimeo here: http://vimeo.com/behindthebarriers

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SRAM pArt Project

Ken Hurd — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 13:35:27 +0000

46 artists, 100 SRAM components and 1 great cause… All ingredients part of the SRAM pArt Project:

Artists transform bike parts into art. The art is auctioned off. The proceeds help people in need through World Bicycle Relief. Welcome to the SRAM pART PROJECT, making art that makes a difference.

Here’s a box of 100 SRAM high-performance bike components. Now make something of it. That’s the challenge SRAM laid down for a group of noted artists from across the country, handpicked by Milwaukee’s art Guru Terrence Coffman and SRAM’s very own Marketing Chief David Zimberoff. The participating artists more than met this challenge.

In an effort to raise funds for World Bicycle Relief these unique works of art are all going to be auctioned off later this fall.

I have to say, it’s great to see a SRAM get behind a great cause in such an imaginative way. You can check out all the pieces here :-)