Sparse to Release Theft-Resistant Bike Lights

Finally, bicycle lights you can leave on your bike when you park. San Francisco-based Sparse will offer front and rear lights which attach directly to frame parts making them more difficult to steal. The front light, aptly named “The Spacer”, rests below them stem and fits both 1” and 1-1/8” steer tubes. The rear light mounts to your 20mm – 31.6mm seatpost.

Rated at 220 lumens in the front and 50 lumens in the rear, these die-cast aluminum beauties house a double lens with a silicone gasket to keep the elements out. Both lights have a reflector behind the LED bulbs to maximize output and provide rider safety when the lights are off. The rear light’s automatic blink mode begins flashing when the bicycle is in motion and remains flashing for one minute after stopping. Charge the LiPo battery with a supplied 6’ USB cord or wall plug adapter for up to four hours of run time.

Available in March 2013, they are offered in a black or brushed alloy finish. Suggested retail prices are $50 for the rear, $75 for the front, and $120 for the set. Pony up $160 and you can buy yours in a limited edition white alloy. Video after the jump

Giro Introduces New Aero Helmet Design

Aerodynamic helmet design has reached a new standard with Giro’s introduction of the Air Attack. Unlike anything resembling current TT designs, Giro’s new lid has a mostly solid outer shell with only six vents. Yet despite its oven-like appearance, the Air Attack makes good use of its internal channel design while the rider is moving. That said, some have questioned its ability to vent well in slow, high-intensity efforts such as prolonged climbs. Conversely, Giro claims that the Air Attack’s smooth shell is key to its slippery profile. Continue reading Giro Introduces New Aero Helmet Design

Name of Thrones: The Fastest Saddle in the West

Australian saddle maker Thrones has introduced a speedy looking cover design featuring red racing stripes on a white background. With the white/red/black colorway flooding the bicycle market today, this new design will certainly be a popular choice among riders seeking a flashy aftermarket saddle. Continue reading Name of Thrones: The Fastest Saddle in the West

Brooklyn Cruiser Adds 3-Speed Models to its Commuter Line-Up

In response to consumer demand for the versatility of more gears, Brooklyn Cruiser recently unveiled two new 3-speed models at the New Amsterdam Bicycle Show at Skylight Soho in Manhattan.

The men’s Driggs 3 and women’s Willow 3 models are equipped with a Sturmey Archer 3-speed hub and grip shifter, delivering ease of operation and a virtually maintenance-free drive train. A front lever brake assists the coaster brake hub. Like their immensely popular two-speed predecessors, they offer the strength of a steel frame and 36-hole double walled wheels, the comfort of a pre-conditioned leather saddle with dual springs and a swept back handlebar, and the convenience of a chain guard, a center mount kickstand, and fenders. Continue reading Brooklyn Cruiser Adds 3-Speed Models to its Commuter Line-Up

Fitness Journal: Bicycle Repair Tips – Shifting

Roadies and mountain bikers plagued by shifting problems may serve themselves well by first examining the health of their inner and outer cables.  Those unable to solve shifting issues with a simple cable tension adjustment or who experience stiff action at the shift lever should strongly consider starting from scratch with new cables.

The ease with which the inner cable travels through the outer cable is paramount to superior shifting performance, especially at the rear derailleur where only a small amount of travel is required to make a clean and easy shift.  Here, a compromise in travel as little as 1-2mm can adversely affect shifting performance.   Cable travel can be impeded by a corroded inner cable, a bent outer cable, an outer cable whose inner wire strands have pulled through the casing (which may not be revealed without removal of the ferrule), or simply too many rides in the rain or mud.

Continue reading Fitness Journal: Bicycle Repair Tips – Shifting

Minimal Goes Casual

Who says the concept of a minimal shoe should be confined to running? Much like compression clothing, minimal footwear now represents relaxation and recovery as much as it does competition.

With a scant 4mm drop the New Balance NewSky certainly qualifies as a minimalist shoe, whether it’s worn about the house or as an everyday shoe. At four to five oz. you may decide to throw away your favorite house slippers, and who could blame you? They have a decidedly fun and yet urban look. Video after the jump