Oregon Manifest This Weekend

For those of you not in the loop, the Oregon Manifest is happening this weekend. In fact, it began this morning. All the entrants submitted their bicycles, had photos taken, and explained to the judges the features that make their bikes unique. I'm not posting photos (except for a taste of the bike I built, which I'm pretty excited about) because I don't think the bikes have officially been unveiled to the public. The public unveiling happens this evening. If you're in the area, you ought to come out. There are some really amazing and interesting designs. It's very exciting to see how each builder and collaborative team interpreted the criterium and built their bikes. I'm impressed with all the crazy innovation I saw, and I'm really looking forward to the 50 mile ride tomorrow. How are all these bikes going to perform? It remains to be seen. We're all curious to know what sort of course has been chosen for us. The course is still a secret, and will be revealed this evening. 

My Oregon Manifest Submission

Bike Tour -- Vancouver Island

I will be out of the shop from the 31st of August to the 15th (or so) of September.

We're taking some time to ride around Vancouver Island. I've never been there, and everyone I've talked to who has spent any time there says it's a beautiful place. We'll see about that. I'll be reporting on the trip when I've got the time and the internet access. 

All shipping of flask holsters, handlebars and center stands will have to wait until I'm back. Thanks for your patience. 

See you on the other side!

Michael A 650b Randonneur

Michael A 650b Randonneur

Here's a classy lugged 650b randonneur. It's got all the basic requirements -- comfortable geometry with a low trail and stable handling with or without weight in the front handlebar bag; it's got a front generator hub and bright front light wired through the rack; the bike has plenty of tire clearance for fatter tires, and long Honjo fenders with mud flaps to keep the road spray off. There's a light duty rear rack that can accommodate small panniers for those short bike camping trips. The drive train is Campagnolo, and everything works like a dream. This is a bike that begs to go out for some seriously long rides, and is meant to be comfortable the whole way, no matter the road conditions. I'm envious of Michael, especially since this one is just about my size.

Enjoy!