tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17774158194981189232024-03-18T23:51:27.428-04:00Velo Chic NYCBringing Sexy Back to CyclingVelo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-79168802361445941672009-09-02T14:29:00.003-04:002009-09-02T14:38:26.019-04:00My Camera Is BrokenHi all,<br />
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I haven't posted in a few days because my camera is broken. The LCD is completely cracked. I don't know how it happened. I took it out of it's padded camera case and it was cracked. It never took a fall or a tumble. I can't figure out what happened to it.<br />
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I loved that little camera. It served me well and I already miss it. But now I have no way of taking any pictures...<br />
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With this economy and money the way it is, I don't know when I'll be able to buy a new camera. <br />
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I'm really sad.Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-82169233738630322982009-08-25T21:47:00.005-04:002009-08-25T21:57:07.156-04:00Purple Top, Yellow Bike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZUsj2Z7EQyFkyQV-eST4GbnAcghXiRfM16STSAkL08abKC3TtDssHGY4cVFViwXIK8cQ0TwMZ6XYTmKqbwYJBrlwOke9ZjX-EtuAaOjaoYrVgEeRodxFQuIDHfuH26DvXKd4D6BHUB26/s1600-h/DSCN1047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZUsj2Z7EQyFkyQV-eST4GbnAcghXiRfM16STSAkL08abKC3TtDssHGY4cVFViwXIK8cQ0TwMZ6XYTmKqbwYJBrlwOke9ZjX-EtuAaOjaoYrVgEeRodxFQuIDHfuH26DvXKd4D6BHUB26/s400/DSCN1047.JPG" /></a> </div>As I cycled along, I came upon this chic beauty riding happily in the bike lane. Dressed in a sleeveless purple top, a short dove gray slim-fitting skirt, black espadrilles and a gray helmet. She was riding a cute vintage yellow cruiser with a wire basket up front.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8JhzX3yTMAndjuu3UBW3GWU6ZhNOlOkfFE21KmCDVrtWss8c8dJkTAs_ZheYFDti3QaNw80pfT7lurt0U9y3yYCKlAdyRD802WDWkiQWmRr-V0L00vZBCmCoMNZCMvbG1siHHVTSuYSgn/s1600-h/DSCN1045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8JhzX3yTMAndjuu3UBW3GWU6ZhNOlOkfFE21KmCDVrtWss8c8dJkTAs_ZheYFDti3QaNw80pfT7lurt0U9y3yYCKlAdyRD802WDWkiQWmRr-V0L00vZBCmCoMNZCMvbG1siHHVTSuYSgn/s400/DSCN1045.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I noticed that she had a customized "license plate" hanging under her seat. I tried to get a closer shot of it...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPrYmBMtyST1wblQaIlG6OwPDmw5XV-Vpk0nrN4JSdsz-fgixtmb_HMHotM2yej24LKw3SyO11vVotyYjmO0agA2l1wIvtfw2bYn_osiUU_9NrlkeH9KT3v8aqckBszTZknavWB2wzmxp/s1600-h/DSCN1046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkPrYmBMtyST1wblQaIlG6OwPDmw5XV-Vpk0nrN4JSdsz-fgixtmb_HMHotM2yej24LKw3SyO11vVotyYjmO0agA2l1wIvtfw2bYn_osiUU_9NrlkeH9KT3v8aqckBszTZknavWB2wzmxp/s400/DSCN1046.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>It read "Chitra". </i></span></div><br />
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Just adorable and stylish... I told her she looked great. As I passed her she had the biggest smile on her face and was laughing. <br />
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Keep up the good work, "Chitra". :)Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-83858543064139924712009-08-25T21:11:00.013-04:002009-08-25T21:55:06.038-04:00Shopping Around in a Long Blue Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6SlzvpcXdfBqik1Hl3LDTaTXZxsLqXtk6CO3KIDrSYlU1NJCvtumdHSYUsGHOwNXUfdkOqJIz6wLbW1Y77KKgankImr2d0gqHdyQSz3Zr4JxM018hWyACFybZl_UpbOoM2FOCtBhPpIP/s1600-h/DSCN0977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6SlzvpcXdfBqik1Hl3LDTaTXZxsLqXtk6CO3KIDrSYlU1NJCvtumdHSYUsGHOwNXUfdkOqJIz6wLbW1Y77KKgankImr2d0gqHdyQSz3Zr4JxM018hWyACFybZl_UpbOoM2FOCtBhPpIP/s400/DSCN0977.JPG" /></a></div>I like to go shopping during off-peak hours when fewer people are clogging the stores. so I crept away from work a little early and went in search of a few goodies. I put my quick release basket on the front with a blue reusable shopping bag and set out on my journey.<br />
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The temperature was about 85 degrees with 66% humidity. I wore a very long, floor-grazing, blue print sundress with blue flip-flops and Dior light-tinted sunglasses. (Note the absence of heels. I decided to "rough it" in flats, lol.)<br />
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The dress is long and flowing. I had no problem riding my bike in it. Actually, I loved the way it caught the wind and added instant "air conditioning". <br />
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It's really hard taking photos of myself on my bike. I really need to practice my "panda shots"... <br />
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My first stop was Sahadi in Brooklyn Heights. They didn't have what I was looking for so off I went...<br />
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... Onto Fairway... A huge store with a ton of great items. They have everything from organic food to fresh produce to live lobster. They even have a cafe. It's always good shopping at Fairway.<br />
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I chuckled when I saw the sign hanging over the olive bar <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(pictured below)</i></span>. Among the olives I picked were ones stuffed with Habanero chili peppers. I'm the only person I know that can eat them without batting an eyelash. (I love spicy food!)<br />
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After my quick run inside, I emerged to see these two cuties loading up their backpacks with their groceries and heading off on their bikes.<br />
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I took a little ride down the road to a nice little pier along the waters' edge... And, yes, that is a freshly-cooked, french baguette sticking out of the top of my basket. :) <br />
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There I found lavender and other flowers. Among them, the bees were working hard. (I like bees.) :)<br />
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In the photo below, you can see the Statue of Liberty off in the distance toward the top left...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJXbfzpGoZOc6dK11gCAkKZhfoTj4Hj8matstavKtNObqKa9Gh_F2eW0Frl6z0QBLsur4WfkiqST_HgF89WQX7IchMBRboVQ8uCSJ_zlNclscqaxj3kdR1WisODOzQ4HSBuDsrdltNbXQ/s1600-h/DSCN1036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJXbfzpGoZOc6dK11gCAkKZhfoTj4Hj8matstavKtNObqKa9Gh_F2eW0Frl6z0QBLsur4WfkiqST_HgF89WQX7IchMBRboVQ8uCSJ_zlNclscqaxj3kdR1WisODOzQ4HSBuDsrdltNbXQ/s400/DSCN1036.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Leaving the pier I turned down a street with the most curious shop on it... I loved the way they had a child's tricycle mounted on the facade (along with a lot of other things).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGPP9PKR-Y43nzb0hTvEx5AdXXbL3bwSnBgFgxSJcFE6Wv6m8cW8VzslIWWJX8R2wHXapl3BmPHkfqlANS9N5GFXRZecAupoRN3JhH5c-0j0S4Wfiv7wsCCgRvMF1sHLsBN_kqO5kqwha/s1600-h/DSCN1038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGPP9PKR-Y43nzb0hTvEx5AdXXbL3bwSnBgFgxSJcFE6Wv6m8cW8VzslIWWJX8R2wHXapl3BmPHkfqlANS9N5GFXRZecAupoRN3JhH5c-0j0S4Wfiv7wsCCgRvMF1sHLsBN_kqO5kqwha/s400/DSCN1038.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjucVny-OW2WBkBhyhbv33XM_jecaRg4RMaPjoBgKyweOH79qqnfPBFy0sra1AcU8g5Bx4kd2fCMhDaMTtTZItSVpVWiTgZAYTriy6mqcG4LzaVKIZI7KRixnfZEAe867icDfXC-l9VBHZ/s1600-h/DSCN1039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjucVny-OW2WBkBhyhbv33XM_jecaRg4RMaPjoBgKyweOH79qqnfPBFy0sra1AcU8g5Bx4kd2fCMhDaMTtTZItSVpVWiTgZAYTriy6mqcG4LzaVKIZI7KRixnfZEAe867icDfXC-l9VBHZ/s400/DSCN1039.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I cycled home, happily, looking forward to a great meal tonight...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPsFln7aLFwKDT5BX6m1IdqOs4VccqlavwjsvKLhqn-tQzYt1zmFzchluYTkwY9u7oOFPQ70CRg7zRSS2h5F2dnTFrrkb0HHbwowyIeAXROV_J_kUxXGv2j7ufRy8MlG8cR30JJQ3eK7O/s1600-h/DSCN1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPsFln7aLFwKDT5BX6m1IdqOs4VccqlavwjsvKLhqn-tQzYt1zmFzchluYTkwY9u7oOFPQ70CRg7zRSS2h5F2dnTFrrkb0HHbwowyIeAXROV_J_kUxXGv2j7ufRy8MlG8cR30JJQ3eK7O/s400/DSCN1042.JPG" /></a></div>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-80235887769734740642009-08-24T17:01:00.003-04:002009-08-25T21:25:21.203-04:00Should I Stay or Should I Go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRtcCmBQ2HSpnrU1jYm36WIy-fm3a9lFvFowgUUb_wrTpBxMOrkcDgR8epZXlnk58GTFW5GcL4nxFaKpHZg1Z0SZGM05KcX72lzncfBRCKAMCIXndHnpgY-jlw9UA50SDYd8EzxTYNvfI/s1600-h/DSCN0870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRtcCmBQ2HSpnrU1jYm36WIy-fm3a9lFvFowgUUb_wrTpBxMOrkcDgR8epZXlnk58GTFW5GcL4nxFaKpHZg1Z0SZGM05KcX72lzncfBRCKAMCIXndHnpgY-jlw9UA50SDYd8EzxTYNvfI/s400/DSCN0870.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">This walk signal just can't make up it's mind. It was stuck on both "walk" and "don't walk"...<br />
Should the pedestrians stay or should they go?</div>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-71660709947652886262009-08-24T00:26:00.018-04:002009-08-24T16:34:58.092-04:00Banjo Brothers Saddlebag Panniers - Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEds9aVq2ao8hgAJ9qn1NwZirCoGtzHOoLJ0XrCuWiHLZIl0_y8hPXtZ9EY38mjFwwk754JpI9642dgO0l_Fm0BUCpvTnYJOkvuM5TeMH_XjZ8GYh6lAlnUm8hVIdAcRqbbI9O0tOnVfSN/s1600-h/DSCN0939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEds9aVq2ao8hgAJ9qn1NwZirCoGtzHOoLJ0XrCuWiHLZIl0_y8hPXtZ9EY38mjFwwk754JpI9642dgO0l_Fm0BUCpvTnYJOkvuM5TeMH_XjZ8GYh6lAlnUm8hVIdAcRqbbI9O0tOnVfSN/s400/DSCN0939.JPG" /></a> </div><b>Overview: </b>I have been using a set of <a href="http://banjobrothers.com/products/01090.php#">Banjo Brothers Saddlebag Panniers</a> for 3 months now. I use the panniers on my bike to carry hefty loads. I have stuffed it with a weeks worth of groceries, cans, bottles and containers.<br />
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I have taken trips with it to the beach loaded with beach towels, blanket, sunscreen, beverages, magazines, lunch and snacks. I have dragged it to Ikea to stock up on household items including long items that stuck out of the top of the panniers. I have gone on picnics hauling a full set of china, water, bottle of wine, 2 liter bottle of soda, cheese, fruit, napkins, flatware, and dessert. I use these panniers to haul my personal effects, clothes, sweater or jacket to the office along with my 15.5" laptop.<br />
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I have used and abused them. In near pouring rain. In steady, moderate rain. I have used them in little rain. They have performed wonderfully!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gtlGEip_ujnWoS2jqCbV6_XVKjjTFFspW1Ei2smad8MWFewb0o7aVQXms49GlsBtCE1crLaLejrd5ei1LRpOlE4NQgzWez5d4cyuGHyewmr4mwHwl9T3d6nQQiuuMuIJ6PtqZugE7lRH/s1600-h/DSCN0941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gtlGEip_ujnWoS2jqCbV6_XVKjjTFFspW1Ei2smad8MWFewb0o7aVQXms49GlsBtCE1crLaLejrd5ei1LRpOlE4NQgzWez5d4cyuGHyewmr4mwHwl9T3d6nQQiuuMuIJ6PtqZugE7lRH/s400/DSCN0941.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZqYKAKwBVUzSFunHnW-AIERMxNsZSJGS12_xVCCbCXJ_EPUVQwHJUZr23-bHFXc7-iyCRuhWbYjrRwlVczsMhKcbBnpvR7__IqPl1YkTNNgiGis-XoQZ_IqSFAUSf0TaU5-YledX0nK_/s1600-h/DSCN0942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZqYKAKwBVUzSFunHnW-AIERMxNsZSJGS12_xVCCbCXJ_EPUVQwHJUZr23-bHFXc7-iyCRuhWbYjrRwlVczsMhKcbBnpvR7__IqPl1YkTNNgiGis-XoQZ_IqSFAUSf0TaU5-YledX0nK_/s400/DSCN0942.JPG" /></a> </div><b>Attachment:</b> The panniers are connected in the middle, saddlebag-style. There is a metal ring on the backside of both panniers that are attached to a strap in the top section of the pannier. The metal ring hooks onto the little "leg" of the bike rack to keep it from flapping, secure and out of the spokes. There is also a front strap that goes around the upturned "lip" at the front of the rack, if you have it, to further secure the panniers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjayYgSbnGWLbccXM6Q4BwuQtSnpAAfIS4yzl2agIF_LNc-uQ5Vi2Zwe6HcR3RtivPqpGCZuhpd8Z6cNsjMzEeLuwTXwINmSQg_Is4jbORvukJzRF8FreFRLrCM1-uoDhcFeYRS7-aIMyf/s1600-h/DSCN0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjayYgSbnGWLbccXM6Q4BwuQtSnpAAfIS4yzl2agIF_LNc-uQ5Vi2Zwe6HcR3RtivPqpGCZuhpd8Z6cNsjMzEeLuwTXwINmSQg_Is4jbORvukJzRF8FreFRLrCM1-uoDhcFeYRS7-aIMyf/s400/DSCN0945.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLY0fEt_p0HHrR7fBdJr_EhXfT5IEV_qnikP9s3JA_IMz3ksLyscHflcLGOwmiWD-48KkceHDE0tqZVc9dgVqmrM8DSY90cCx5ZwccBlecARqqQUY5BgFzMngjVw4wYvqSzMckVNCFY3rZ/s1600-h/DSCN0946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLY0fEt_p0HHrR7fBdJr_EhXfT5IEV_qnikP9s3JA_IMz3ksLyscHflcLGOwmiWD-48KkceHDE0tqZVc9dgVqmrM8DSY90cCx5ZwccBlecARqqQUY5BgFzMngjVw4wYvqSzMckVNCFY3rZ/s400/DSCN0946.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I have never had an issue with the panniers falling off, getting caught in the spokes or otherwise. When you pull the middle strap on the top tight, the panniers aren't going anywhere until you unstrap them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNviXVeL1qKzBPny0ECbj_sEjv1CjxVjjpCBv9HSUWKKlBP78KVpsdhNYDaWQPLeYiRjYHuUHKYMXON3Ds3Kmg-2yhgAIrXx7xLBFJwoSeIo4zMcvF2LTmIYCR8mL0gpby2NMcqHm8pMe/s1600-h/DSCN0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNviXVeL1qKzBPny0ECbj_sEjv1CjxVjjpCBv9HSUWKKlBP78KVpsdhNYDaWQPLeYiRjYHuUHKYMXON3Ds3Kmg-2yhgAIrXx7xLBFJwoSeIo4zMcvF2LTmIYCR8mL0gpby2NMcqHm8pMe/s400/DSCN0953.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<b>Features:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><ul><li> 1500 cubic feet of capacity</li>
<li> 360 degrees of reflective tape</li>
<li> Ripstop fabric with ballistic on the high-wear inside faces</li>
<li> Sturdy strap locking system <br />
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<li> Single strap to attach or remove panniers</li>
<li> Two top straps for tether extra gear (like a jacket) </li>
<li> Stiff, hard plastic inserts to keep panniers' shape</li>
<li> Dual zippers with easy-grasp pulls</li>
<li> Weather-resistant fabric (semi-waterproof)</li>
<li> Tapered lower edges to avoid heel-strike <br />
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</ul>Each pannier measures approximately 14" wide x 14" long x 5" deep. The middle section is approximately 5" wide. They are tapered to avoid heel-strike.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIdltDIZhjQElkSJDlznXuY8zwq-PPrv50qtk8jWXC3gYwlJ97QEHeoW3K6yLlDXopq8gSKsgcgD07viWp_G1WHn8kzJ0RUA_HwC3kJeV860TIfTrrHmQPCUKRV0_tFcPQsWATVbx5rIL/s1600-h/DSCN0956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIdltDIZhjQElkSJDlznXuY8zwq-PPrv50qtk8jWXC3gYwlJ97QEHeoW3K6yLlDXopq8gSKsgcgD07viWp_G1WHn8kzJ0RUA_HwC3kJeV860TIfTrrHmQPCUKRV0_tFcPQsWATVbx5rIL/s400/DSCN0956.JPG" /></a></div><br />
There are two black, sturdy plastic inserts that slide into a dedicated sleeve along the rear of the inside of each pannier holding it stiff. They are the same exact shape as the panniers themselves.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8K5S-2-uAog-y4FfgSLymiogr54ja4JTHdYKe_yZPHhILsHMcPzUzAJH4f2a1cCz0zYZK5P2rKtkom0omNbaJWjSY_n-JcNJ-GQ2aoMSBK-t5gA1UXXLE8i7fPHN5Vn-Fn_dYsE2nU6y6/s1600-h/DSCN0958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8K5S-2-uAog-y4FfgSLymiogr54ja4JTHdYKe_yZPHhILsHMcPzUzAJH4f2a1cCz0zYZK5P2rKtkom0omNbaJWjSY_n-JcNJ-GQ2aoMSBK-t5gA1UXXLE8i7fPHN5Vn-Fn_dYsE2nU6y6/s400/DSCN0958.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRBi3HLRGLEib1g7yW6QvLOimLrbNSxL1akxFbwepJakH19iGcG5hkDpM2BCZI9ViMEEe4TXcoXeydg7GzTZgSOKw5vvTMsv-2NEqWC9UEF1C9jCutvfAZzEpxSIlqcOQb-iaRSuxhloz/s1600-h/DSCN0961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRBi3HLRGLEib1g7yW6QvLOimLrbNSxL1akxFbwepJakH19iGcG5hkDpM2BCZI9ViMEEe4TXcoXeydg7GzTZgSOKw5vvTMsv-2NEqWC9UEF1C9jCutvfAZzEpxSIlqcOQb-iaRSuxhloz/s400/DSCN0961.JPG" /></a> </div>Below you can see the plastic insert in it's sleeve. The small red arrows at the left denote the sleeve. The small yellow arrow denote the plastic insert itself.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvsZMDy5VHKtQnpujReOkiqrFkCRC2D1-PmvfD9s-1NhDB64DwEecfNZRgsXVre_HfP8vETkTbA6YYWIq3nCu1iMJJ1fnMC6oJVSaLB6DoqT3Cj4nzxkGw6n_jOvufUHqRfG4t5l3K2bF/s1600-h/Liner+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvsZMDy5VHKtQnpujReOkiqrFkCRC2D1-PmvfD9s-1NhDB64DwEecfNZRgsXVre_HfP8vETkTbA6YYWIq3nCu1iMJJ1fnMC6oJVSaLB6DoqT3Cj4nzxkGw6n_jOvufUHqRfG4t5l3K2bF/s400/Liner+1.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Below you can see the inside of the pannier with the insert in it's sleeve along the bottom of the photo.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlffVNZmH0S30kgTrmm4-5k1ij_lSz7-MPw8HX3-WPDlvvDmv9Mv4_q53EMkerE2qTvJn7OQo2P2XrfNWG7oJByBw4yLBmGPSHsl_uvyAHvENzXmWz7R7UiGi5Sprt4R0dRWSV0FLuG6Jn/s1600-h/DSCN0962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlffVNZmH0S30kgTrmm4-5k1ij_lSz7-MPw8HX3-WPDlvvDmv9Mv4_q53EMkerE2qTvJn7OQo2P2XrfNWG7oJByBw4yLBmGPSHsl_uvyAHvENzXmWz7R7UiGi5Sprt4R0dRWSV0FLuG6Jn/s400/DSCN0962.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Below are photos of the double zippers and pull tabs. Note the small gap between the zippers. In wind-driven and/or heavy rain, water might seep into that tiny space <i>but</i> the whole zipper is sheltered by a little "lip" that covers and protects it from the elements.<br />
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These panniers are weather-resistant, not waterproof. They can't be used as a flotation device or expected to withstand heavy rain and/or prolonged wet conditions <br />
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Though on the outside it might appear that the panniers can't hold much but you'd be shocked at how much it can fit. The sides expand quite a bit to accommodate the load.<br />
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I went to the store and bought a 38 quart container of Lipton Iced it. It's a large, heavy item that easily fit into the panniers with a ton of room to spare.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKlGupALXNLw6Jdmg9X3iDjIkWz3i7hjcVQlbn2KsCSD6nGddKnZa1ChZeY7FQrrp7FFN6rxyyVUBeCFv6kpnGjX_KETo91QxVFjlcNmD4MMnT-HeE43SJOkFSAknecUZEtfe0T5Utt9D/s1600-h/DSCN0971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKlGupALXNLw6Jdmg9X3iDjIkWz3i7hjcVQlbn2KsCSD6nGddKnZa1ChZeY7FQrrp7FFN6rxyyVUBeCFv6kpnGjX_KETo91QxVFjlcNmD4MMnT-HeE43SJOkFSAknecUZEtfe0T5Utt9D/s400/DSCN0971.JPG" /></a></div><br />
You can attach extra gear and goodies on the top of the panniers with the two included adjustable straps.<br />
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I've used the straps to secure all manner of items from bags, to purses, to a bottles, to sweaters, to jackets, etc. Below I even secured the 38 quart container of Iced Tea to the top. Half the strap wasn't even used so I could tie down something almost twice the size.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibREsGdIHGuAlispubHbcXGQw5h7c4v37yGA5NzR1TVLR-7jrlSNqvGKVQxGTFZ4zOoRWT9rZC4y0ofWfrXSOUL1m2k6kQMGV9sSqozPzG6LFLqfdDff0w1Dp8RbePeKr1ag6_DjGTGHt/s1600-h/DSCN0975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibREsGdIHGuAlispubHbcXGQw5h7c4v37yGA5NzR1TVLR-7jrlSNqvGKVQxGTFZ4zOoRWT9rZC4y0ofWfrXSOUL1m2k6kQMGV9sSqozPzG6LFLqfdDff0w1Dp8RbePeKr1ag6_DjGTGHt/s400/DSCN0975.JPG" /></a> </div><br />
<b>Wishes:</b> The panniers are almost perfect but I would have loved to have an inside pocket to put my money, cellphone, keys or other small objects into that otherwise might find their way to the bottom of the bag when I need them most.<br />
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<b>Conclusion:</b> The Banjo Brothers Saddlebag Panniers are large, sturdy and weather-resistant. They can stand up to daily use and abuse while hauling a healthy-sized load. They are excellent for commuting, grocery shopping, light touring and everything in between. Anything you put in it will stay safe and secure. They will not get caught in your spokes no matter how full you stuff it. And due to their tapered design, heel-strike is a <i>not</i> an issue.<br />
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The 360 degrees of reflective piping/edging make sure that you are visible on the road in low-light and dark conditions. <br />
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At <a href="http://banjobrothers.com/products/01090.php#">$54.99 MSRP</a>, the panniers are a very good deal. They are well-made and well worth it. I highly recommend them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiCiIdFFtMKTeQdSNOTHacll_3NdE5ZZ85-NkcKYXwj08HqHp0jqKGsc8oRaNmT-kEGww0T4UD4AznM8yyiLC1BZxnhfqx8724GVEqmAnGVoy9eAsX4Byn3oJz4P5B6tdjORBwyxKiKtx/s1600-h/DSCN0937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiCiIdFFtMKTeQdSNOTHacll_3NdE5ZZ85-NkcKYXwj08HqHp0jqKGsc8oRaNmT-kEGww0T4UD4AznM8yyiLC1BZxnhfqx8724GVEqmAnGVoy9eAsX4Byn3oJz4P5B6tdjORBwyxKiKtx/s400/DSCN0937.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-80967066148615561902009-08-23T22:01:00.004-04:002009-08-23T22:24:55.212-04:00Two for the Road: Chic Cylcing x 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qhEz_DERoSvm1VGTf5hGdIvwh8HUiRA8_2VpP1QXRqEn44XnTp-3Obmwv5BNZa5iKaEMd9qYo6DqmkODkjiCE8jqbqwoC9u5kAOjH24K-Xg2Jwso1Srik0u7pZI5jfWqVnmbnjaS_br-/s1600-h/DSCN0889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qhEz_DERoSvm1VGTf5hGdIvwh8HUiRA8_2VpP1QXRqEn44XnTp-3Obmwv5BNZa5iKaEMd9qYo6DqmkODkjiCE8jqbqwoC9u5kAOjH24K-Xg2Jwso1Srik0u7pZI5jfWqVnmbnjaS_br-/s400/DSCN0889.JPG" /></a> </div>As I cycled down the Hudson Greenway on Manhattan's west side I came upon this gorgeous couple...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9L8Erkh3420rf_rSggxOcp5D51wsL8H3n14nFJZun6bB5rWSHXzfa4pEfKILqivJwQZHuZbpcoEbaTolwA1OPZVc0c-kQxbJSgzZ_gE7d_sCk7gp19RJQfaqII8SJ_xMGwTJVXdUPmi2/s1600-h/DSCN0887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9L8Erkh3420rf_rSggxOcp5D51wsL8H3n14nFJZun6bB5rWSHXzfa4pEfKILqivJwQZHuZbpcoEbaTolwA1OPZVc0c-kQxbJSgzZ_gE7d_sCk7gp19RJQfaqII8SJ_xMGwTJVXdUPmi2/s400/DSCN0887.JPG" /></a></div><br />
They were riding a black cruiser-style bike that had bars sticking out from both sides of the rear wheel which the girl perched herself upon. The pretty blonde was wearing a pair of designer "Chip & Pepper" jean cut-offs, a simple blue t-shirt, brown tinted aviator-style sunglasses, flip-flops and a yellow grocery bag slung over her shoulder. She gently draped her arms upon her boyfriends' shoulders, confident in his ability to ride safely with her behind him. The boyfriend was wearing a beige t-shirt, cream shorts, brown tinted aviator-style sunglasses and flip-flops.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3E5ypkVEMu5JdcKHU2hVzfWBUk1_cmG4pb_pgV7rjmNEDOGJ2YwOAPZRcgoVoiq9FcKTHCYDIzRWnIPeiRT_thXxIIpcj2JJyDY9tb-EjhzdyWP6TGVziJrdQYzys6M0qRXe8lQal0mp/s1600-h/DSCN0888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3E5ypkVEMu5JdcKHU2hVzfWBUk1_cmG4pb_pgV7rjmNEDOGJ2YwOAPZRcgoVoiq9FcKTHCYDIzRWnIPeiRT_thXxIIpcj2JJyDY9tb-EjhzdyWP6TGVziJrdQYzys6M0qRXe8lQal0mp/s320/DSCN0888.JPG" /></a></div><br />
They were the essence of simple, fun, chic cycling. As I rode past them I told them that they were the cutest couple and I loved their style. They thanked me, smiled and laughed. Just a gorgeous couple out cycling and enjoying the day.<br />
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Later down the Greenway I was witness to a little girl that threw her chain right in front of me. I immediately stopped and went to help her. Her mother was a good deal ahead. As I bent over, the cute couple above slowed down and asked me if I needed help. The couple started making their way back towards me.<br />
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While I was putting the chain back on another nice gentleman stopped and came to our aid. He said he knew exactly how to get the chain back on so I stopped and allowed him to do his magic. It took just a few seconds... By that time the mother was at my side explaining that this was the second time today that the little girl had thrown her chain. The gentleman said that it was due to the rear brakes being too tight. I mentioned that I had a multi-tool and could fix the brakes but the mother said that it was ok. I mentioned that there was a bike shop down the road on Hudson that could fix it for around $5. She declined. The gentleman and the couple rode off.<br />
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The little girl looked up at her mother, baring her hands and said that her hands were dirty. I looked down and offered to give her a handi-wipe (moist towelette). Again the mother declined. I said that it wasn't a problem, that I always carry handi-wipes and proceeded to open the wipe. The little girl clearly wanted to clean her hands and reached up for the wipe. I happily handed her the wipe knowing that I only had one and my hands were filthy, covered in black grease and dirt from the chain. No problem. I said good-bye to the mother and little girl and rode off with dirty hands. Having dirty hands never felt so good. :)<br />
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Further down the greenway near Battery Park I stumbled upon another couple, one of which was riding a beautiful black Gazelle with full chain case, rear rack, coat/skirt guard and a dynomo headlight. His partner was riding a turquoise bike.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6FmlClIKGFNVu9rWZuca6NfHMWUolcIDe63bb23zRQ64I08XTPOitPAoyzTP17Re2nMdWnNBRqFFNcZhE88iX3-k7_D2g2ou76Olp8st1M46ukPrJAxsJgLv7PPW3hrhQWBRYObsLA_S/s1600-h/DSCN0892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6FmlClIKGFNVu9rWZuca6NfHMWUolcIDe63bb23zRQ64I08XTPOitPAoyzTP17Re2nMdWnNBRqFFNcZhE88iX3-k7_D2g2ou76Olp8st1M46ukPrJAxsJgLv7PPW3hrhQWBRYObsLA_S/s400/DSCN0892.JPG" /></a></div><br />
The gentleman on the Gazelle dutch-style bike looked so regal and relaxed. He was wearing a polo shirt, simple beige khakis and leather slip-ones. Simple, effortless, stylish.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Z6YU7PIK40jyjQG7M6dYLI0p2exf9dpE8xqhKOYJNl0g-JjY7AaBplEb_l5IJXlIku83X8KrXk4_KLMmApn_SBSRj25lL9ShfzbAqrcdA4jasgvXHDTLqCIlcvIRDZZHzcvAbvaDcIkd/s1600-h/DSCN0891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Z6YU7PIK40jyjQG7M6dYLI0p2exf9dpE8xqhKOYJNl0g-JjY7AaBplEb_l5IJXlIku83X8KrXk4_KLMmApn_SBSRj25lL9ShfzbAqrcdA4jasgvXHDTLqCIlcvIRDZZHzcvAbvaDcIkd/s400/DSCN0891.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I happily rode further along in Battery City Park when I came upon these beautiful flowers in bloom. They reminded me of the two chic couples that I saw on their bikes. Both the flowers and the couples made me very happy to see... I love flowers, I love happy couples and of course I love cycling! Mixing all there is just heaven. <br />
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As I took in the beauty of the flowers a bumble bee buzzed gingerly from flower to flower. I managed to capture a picture of him as he flew by...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7ak36smT2zbsMmg0JreHe9VsXtPgQGXtvqVtn0DpIOaIYr0Om7U__0heT4hrUfDWLFn45FhAzOL1JH-V8HoL_tv1JWMLDE9B5ia0gRdh_tFXs5YyTWsoZ1xOICsgc8souZgbMRfKvh9J/s1600-h/DSCN0914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7ak36smT2zbsMmg0JreHe9VsXtPgQGXtvqVtn0DpIOaIYr0Om7U__0heT4hrUfDWLFn45FhAzOL1JH-V8HoL_tv1JWMLDE9B5ia0gRdh_tFXs5YyTWsoZ1xOICsgc8souZgbMRfKvh9J/s400/DSCN0914.JPG" /></a></div><br />
It was great finally taking photos of some chic cyclists "in the wild". I loved seeing the two happy couples out enjoying themselves on their bikes. I felt like that bumble bee floating from flower to flower, taking in their beauty and flying off...Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-55789512443743163012009-08-23T21:05:00.001-04:002009-08-23T21:10:23.019-04:00Summer Streets: Farewell Until Next Year! (8/22/09)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqIV2UWdIYRJ0urTIM2SoLFGDj5yrNjDqofj7qqHPa_31gAnp8MBNnWsflcR9PQ2buMT7R77lk42zOwKYh6H6NovQcXaghES8qpAx1epDsfrba30VZ5MiXlvuqslUQmRHV5Hkh-dSpC4ip/s1600-h/DSCN0884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqIV2UWdIYRJ0urTIM2SoLFGDj5yrNjDqofj7qqHPa_31gAnp8MBNnWsflcR9PQ2buMT7R77lk42zOwKYh6H6NovQcXaghES8qpAx1epDsfrba30VZ5MiXlvuqslUQmRHV5Hkh-dSpC4ip/s400/DSCN0884.JPG" /></a></div>Even though it had been raining earlier and threatened to rain all morning and afternoon, I rode out to enjoy the last day of <a href="http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/summerstreets/html/home/home.shtml">Summer Streets 2009</a>.<br />
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As always it's great to see the residents of New York City out and being active. The crowd was of moderate size kept smaller most likely due to the threat of rain.<br />
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As I was waiting for the light to turn green on Park Avenue at 23rd Street a woman rode up next to me, on her hybrid bike, staring at me. I smiled at her. She smiled back and made a comment about the shape of my legs then asked me if it was hard riding in heels. I told her that it's very easy for me and that I also have rubber soles which help with gripping the pedals. She said that she'd never seen a woman riding in heels and would give it a try herself. I think I made another convert. Excellent! :)<br />
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In the picture above, note a woman on the left-hand side of the screen with a pink and white stripped umbrella. Haha! Smart cookie. She came prepared because around 12:45pm it started drizzling which lead to steadier rain.<br />
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And thus Summer Streets ended. It was great while it lasted. I'm already looking forward to next year. :)Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-23128824803631735372009-08-20T19:00:00.011-04:002009-08-24T16:36:23.080-04:00Cophenhagen Cycle Chic's Author: Mikael<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbxTv6UTfn5dQGUb8ohnwfp9Fq57ocJrOOoAK-tMXDTDDxCwshHqHCqDQv9s5bshvA_Rv_60y9D2au4Qvv-lYSOZ2ci1D8gm4aM6WV9Zs1ZUreTKTfC0XXtSr9tt5_BIePTUgBm4teofB/s1600-r/banner+montage+NEWEST.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbxTv6UTfn5dQGUb8ohnwfp9Fq57ocJrOOoAK-tMXDTDDxCwshHqHCqDQv9s5bshvA_Rv_60y9D2au4Qvv-lYSOZ2ci1D8gm4aM6WV9Zs1ZUreTKTfC0XXtSr9tt5_BIePTUgBm4teofB/s1600-r/banner+montage+NEWEST.png" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 167px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 920px;" /></a><br />
I received a nice little note from Mikael Colville-Andersen, the author of <a href="http://www.copenhagencyclechic.com/">Copenhagen Cycle Chic</a>:<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: bold;">"Copenhagen loves you. I mean REALLY loves you. You GO girlfriend!"</span></blockquote>I garner inspiration from Mikael and his blog, <a href="http://www.copenhagencyclechic.com/">Copenhagen Cycle Chic</a> (CCC). I love his photos and his comments. He has traveled around the world chronicling cycling culture and catching beauty on two heels with his camera. It's amazing.<br />
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Mikael also added my blog to his list on CCCs front page. I really appreciate it and look forward to finding a little slice of Copenhagen here in New York City.<br />
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Thank you, Mikael. :)<br />
<blockquote></blockquote><blockquote></blockquote>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-70074160670320486232009-08-20T12:48:00.012-04:002009-08-20T21:47:09.924-04:00Battle Over Bike Lane in Staten Island<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://blog.silive.com/latest_news/2009/08/large_8-19-staten-island-capodanno.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 453px; height: 198px;" src="http://blog.silive.com/latest_news/2009/08/large_8-19-staten-island-capodanno.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />According to the <a href="http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/08/cyclists_and_motorists_struggl.html">Staten Island Advance</a>, a confrontation between motorists and a cyclist occurred when cyclist Gregory DeRespino, 48 <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(pictured above left),</span></span> stopped at a red light in a clearly marked bike lane at a busy intersection in Staten Island <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(pictured above right)</span></span>.<br /><br />Motorists, who couldn't be bothered to wait their turn, were illegally driving up behind Mr. DeRespino, in the clearly marked bike lane, attempting to make a right turn. Mr. DeRespino stood his ground.<br /><br />Apparently, motorists were upset. One particular motorists by the name of Michael Graziuso, 27, went too far. Graziuso parked his car, went back to Mr. DeRespino who was still standing in the bike lane with his bike, and proceeded to attack DeRespino by pulling him off his bike, dragging the bike out of the bike lane and then kicking DeRespino while he was down!<br /><br />Thankfully, the police arrested Michael Graziuso and charged him with third-degree assault and second-degree harassment.<br /><br />The police have been issuing tickets at this particular intersection due to cars illegally driving in the bike lane:<br /><blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>"A city Department of Transportation spokesman said last week that while motorists are allowed to cross the bike lane from a right-side car lane to make a turn, that doesn't mean motorists can cut into the bike lane beforehand and use it as a turning lane."<br /></blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">Motorists, the bike lane is </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">not</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> your personal express lane or your turning lane or your parking spot or your loading zone. </span><span><span style="font-weight: bold;">IT'S A BIKE LANE. If you're not a bike, please, stay out of it!</span><br /><br />The DOT and the City of NY need to educate motorists more thoroughly on this as well as other bike-related issues.</span><br /><br />On my daily commute and travels I am subject to flagrant use and abuse of bike lanes as parking spots, express lanes, pick up/drop off points, loading zones, standing zones, etc., by motorists of all kinds. It's dangerous, illegal and has to stop.<br /><br />I applaud Mr. DeRespino for standing his ground and taking his rightful place on the road and in the bike lane.<br /><blockquote></blockquote>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-8924547840850576852009-08-20T12:12:00.009-04:002009-08-20T12:41:54.929-04:00AYHSMB!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbONi9Tsq-h1WPqHrv6CF4gHqV13PAraZ-v4A5OjTvrrUjv6Xuzca3I1arjxxJecKpwAnChlp-S2bV19mNinjw2O5ysYokUfG2PYmiuddnk7eqVmNFUKFFWiIEXphxZ_Dg1mvUigzY35Jt/s1600-h/ayhsmb+t-shirt.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 368px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbONi9Tsq-h1WPqHrv6CF4gHqV13PAraZ-v4A5OjTvrrUjv6Xuzca3I1arjxxJecKpwAnChlp-S2bV19mNinjw2O5ysYokUfG2PYmiuddnk7eqVmNFUKFFWiIEXphxZ_Dg1mvUigzY35Jt/s400/ayhsmb+t-shirt.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372086220441356530" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com/2009/08/cycleanalysis-buy-two-and-call-me-in.html">Bike Snob NYC</a> picked up my story about "Cycling 40 Miles in Heels". Thanks! Now, to pay homage to BSNYC, I say: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikC9GwdsjkY9pI4Gq8JAeSXRXDUDoaOZelXhALINyd1J_MZ3XiyFH8WxejOOUi2xFgZT3MWkNEFcHbG2h9QHLbbuW4kKFHBPubeYBC5SUmkEf_oN5AkZtF3y7zuar53PXzbMLd1BLiANux/s400/haters-1.jpg"><span style="font-weight: bold;">AYHSMB</span>!</a> :)Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-36725417624966567992009-08-13T13:46:00.015-04:002009-08-19T20:17:05.040-04:00Cycling 40 Miles In Heels? No problem!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcARpW5ObPs_BmlyPeIk6QzTi-__PUaC-Gld6x1N2OaWw4V7MH-lzFYgoyhEQNu_KgSDr3vWzRaWvcGx4995D53cgQ9BR_Cs8b9QwY5oKcHl610rDw5IAHmr2jkPotiGXqWWkNMFVn4L_c/s1600-h/Heel.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 364px; height: 141px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcARpW5ObPs_BmlyPeIk6QzTi-__PUaC-Gld6x1N2OaWw4V7MH-lzFYgoyhEQNu_KgSDr3vWzRaWvcGx4995D53cgQ9BR_Cs8b9QwY5oKcHl610rDw5IAHmr2jkPotiGXqWWkNMFVn4L_c/s400/Heel.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369515161406803234" border="0" /></a>Most people are shocked and amazed when they see me riding a bike in high heels. This was even more so when I went on a 40 mile ride with a group of 50+ people this weekend. 75% of which were dressed in spandex, many in full "kit", a bunch on expensive bikes and some more on very expensive carbon fiber bikes.<br /><br />I showed up in a v-neck white t-shirt, navy blue shorts, <span style="font-style: italic;">3" slip-on heels </span>and a 25 year old, 34+ lbs, 3-speed, vintage Schwinn Collegiate with a Brooks B17 saddle.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQrYrES4OUfIOdnm6Diz_V45MfLtqZXWciG7yXPcJh8wtZ8pd6GEL4LJ1sAdN8hIUVUnh5TEUCn0PF32chw1edc3bC0ejaLzGFzgGnmG2vxqBVmAIxBIf4WuEYp1sqXLhOEo4n4Fo8Tyu/s1600-h/Schwinn+%2B+Louis+Vuitton+Bag.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQrYrES4OUfIOdnm6Diz_V45MfLtqZXWciG7yXPcJh8wtZ8pd6GEL4LJ1sAdN8hIUVUnh5TEUCn0PF32chw1edc3bC0ejaLzGFzgGnmG2vxqBVmAIxBIf4WuEYp1sqXLhOEo4n4Fo8Tyu/s400/Schwinn+%2B+Louis+Vuitton+Bag.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369522029736391650" border="0" /></a><br />I proceeded to drop every single one of the cyclists on the ride. Yes. Even the ones in full kit with carbon fiber bikes. The looks on their faces was priceless because minutes earlier I was receiving very snotty and vaguely hostile looks (and comments), many from the <span style="font-style: italic;">women</span>. Most of the men were just amused and a bit bewildered, trying to figure out whether I was actually riding with them or just lost like the gentleman pictured below in the blue kit and new $3,000 full carbon bike!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBe4YGqf7eLVhzYFjuiG0Bh4YF9StRdvU2UeS3slpi0YNkrWBWBZ_lUri8n56mUnkiQZI9Bwb_ba7EViy5ETRN3c3DLCOwX0Zo5wJvSNJRHVfvIoQfyLUU1hqF5yCX2E4Obxi5dM90zUq/s1600-h/On+the+Street.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBe4YGqf7eLVhzYFjuiG0Bh4YF9StRdvU2UeS3slpi0YNkrWBWBZ_lUri8n56mUnkiQZI9Bwb_ba7EViy5ETRN3c3DLCOwX0Zo5wJvSNJRHVfvIoQfyLUU1hqF5yCX2E4Obxi5dM90zUq/s400/On+the+Street.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369516156012508738" border="0" /></a><br />I dislike "bike-elitist-wannabes". You know, the guys, and some girls, that think that having an expensive bike makes them "better" than someone with a less expensive bike or have the false assumption that having an expensive bike will somehow make them a better, faster, stronger cyclist. I laugh:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It's not the bike that makes the cyclist. It's the cyclist that makes the bike!</span><br /><br />I chuckle to myself and say, "You go ahead and keep dropping $$$ on your carbon rig and I'll keep dropping your ass, in HEELS, on a old 3-speed Schwinn". Gotta love bike snobs getting owned by a chick in heels on a vintage bike. LOL! ;)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6FswikuytIkZofZRG-ImsfefQMVNCMt_j8D-xIdt4p7wGQk_vD7ya_kOJiGLtiCOGsnXran6xCVIUG1tc6w1OpbLVnlk9I6KYSrm_u7x-7oGbx8y_0RvOZ8B7emytJP6LXU6keGH-UTI/s1600-h/Me+%2B+Heels.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 364px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6FswikuytIkZofZRG-ImsfefQMVNCMt_j8D-xIdt4p7wGQk_vD7ya_kOJiGLtiCOGsnXran6xCVIUG1tc6w1OpbLVnlk9I6KYSrm_u7x-7oGbx8y_0RvOZ8B7emytJP6LXU6keGH-UTI/s400/Me+%2B+Heels.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369515394838235986" border="0" /></a><br />At the end of the ride we stopped at a Taco stand and had some great food. I had chorizo, fish and tofu tacos. The tofu and chorizo tacos were my favorite.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5KZADXglastdgRqD5ob-3BuaD8tdMtMQxEME_9JwgUwKra3F9hHAjz8W99hlKSF-QY8r6j7AbQfC8-jAVH8LOChiJOsaaEKob9ImDvXysnujTOxKGyGPVFrkixJTHkL7eMjM4mLJgSfT/s1600-h/Tofu+Taco.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5KZADXglastdgRqD5ob-3BuaD8tdMtMQxEME_9JwgUwKra3F9hHAjz8W99hlKSF-QY8r6j7AbQfC8-jAVH8LOChiJOsaaEKob9ImDvXysnujTOxKGyGPVFrkixJTHkL7eMjM4mLJgSfT/s400/Tofu+Taco.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369522885064304482" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdCJ9rrINhRmYTIiw2RLtxH5yjhZhsGP5GSHgv-CA2IJlLjXoHWXBwYUP19mw25sH58FE3AkzU25Kx6WnEAk8NLsJoyUjfk_q_X7s0mU0HYzRcq_n1B_0glW7VT6vrQh3UzdxoE2ZuxUy/s1600-h/Taco+Menu.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdCJ9rrINhRmYTIiw2RLtxH5yjhZhsGP5GSHgv-CA2IJlLjXoHWXBwYUP19mw25sH58FE3AkzU25Kx6WnEAk8NLsJoyUjfk_q_X7s0mU0HYzRcq_n1B_0glW7VT6vrQh3UzdxoE2ZuxUy/s400/Taco+Menu.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369519651742759986" border="0" /></a><br />It was great seeing all those bikes jumbled together as we lined up and scrambled to get some food. Did I mention how much I love bikes, all kinds, and cycling? :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4QyzKbQ-Qx5N-LBPVZ5eOsQDZBRao5_zWnPOlyvpvlwIsHIiFDgAR-RvcvP5u0kwS2NYoL5nNrLf5mFuqAbEvIKZnTS6yR8BjQgbr-gOkcZuMrxY24pOVE7kb-Nmqe7ojUbHwL8cH8TRA/s1600-h/Taco+Line.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4QyzKbQ-Qx5N-LBPVZ5eOsQDZBRao5_zWnPOlyvpvlwIsHIiFDgAR-RvcvP5u0kwS2NYoL5nNrLf5mFuqAbEvIKZnTS6yR8BjQgbr-gOkcZuMrxY24pOVE7kb-Nmqe7ojUbHwL8cH8TRA/s400/Taco+Line.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369528148047754770" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Tp6SyVFR6YgjmYIbFEhIa8VGyskmIiuv9pSkth_xX-k4ULln2htGn3NK0cBwIwf148RYuVUtSmUlh3iD3COnULr55ib24WlJ8uOwUbrc8XsSPLBveAW376_Df6w8YXdHcxz-nLB_wS4b/s1600-h/Bike+Jumble.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Tp6SyVFR6YgjmYIbFEhIa8VGyskmIiuv9pSkth_xX-k4ULln2htGn3NK0cBwIwf148RYuVUtSmUlh3iD3COnULr55ib24WlJ8uOwUbrc8XsSPLBveAW376_Df6w8YXdHcxz-nLB_wS4b/s400/Bike+Jumble.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369523326569036178" border="0" /></a><br />After finishing my taco, I headed to the beach. Even though it had been overcast, very humid and threatening to rain all day it was still a great ride and a nice day to sit out on the beach just watching the waves and the seagulls...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUEsf9FF36sL-uqb-mEzd2egmqRvAt0hU9GsIqwywhAqwiFAKluGVyGe_uVJoaITwRSBBuS_EbnlWQ-kNka6FBIsn8TjSKftsRXMZ1C507m5KoSP6yT3KJdBR_vaeoL_gQYjCo3NLepawv/s1600-h/Beach.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUEsf9FF36sL-uqb-mEzd2egmqRvAt0hU9GsIqwywhAqwiFAKluGVyGe_uVJoaITwRSBBuS_EbnlWQ-kNka6FBIsn8TjSKftsRXMZ1C507m5KoSP6yT3KJdBR_vaeoL_gQYjCo3NLepawv/s400/Beach.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369528392157546466" border="0" /></a><br />I rode 40 miles in heels on a hot, humid day with ease. Never judge a book by its cover...Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-21484173906166354322009-08-12T10:57:00.016-04:002009-08-24T16:37:07.876-04:00Summer Streets 2009 (8/8/09)<a href="http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/summerstreets/images/misc/ss09_map_web.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/summerstreets/images/misc/ss09_map_web.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 852px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 580px;" /></a>New York City is hosting <a href="http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/summerstreets/html/home/home.shtml">Summer Streets</a> again this year on August 8th, August 15th and August 22nd between 7 AM and 1 PM.<br />
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I had a chance to participate this past Saturday, August 8th. I had a lot of fun riding Park Avenue car-free (though some of the intersecting streets were open to car traffic, Park Ave itself was car-free).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTzFUIdRVR-5LZOZTAC-HDEeHr5Ro8miq37UMutIsDlQZY1QcgFqQ3iq0-j7taoAp-dVXuFBjaGqLz5XIXJ0C28rxCFHQALJjcHg_rUuNlCKED0Y544GbLJaF1eMPrU0QM-R1TDR2TSWc/s1600-h/DSCN0778.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369093400733928706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTzFUIdRVR-5LZOZTAC-HDEeHr5Ro8miq37UMutIsDlQZY1QcgFqQ3iq0-j7taoAp-dVXuFBjaGqLz5XIXJ0C28rxCFHQALJjcHg_rUuNlCKED0Y544GbLJaF1eMPrU0QM-R1TDR2TSWc/s400/DSCN0778.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 225px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
There were live performances, exercise classes and even dancing. I loved the "Bollywood" class that Crunch Fitness put together. It was so nice watching people really, truly enjoying themselves on the streets of NYC.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3j-XDJ2diyBDDCFa1_z1lV2KOKMvX3bVh0gauGxQwQrCt5BySIs-B1DxTI03fAk-4eIBH_QjEqJ589gpEvT2wBYOvrI21_o6Ewjx8GvpcGkA4AxRVTl_d3Mxh_5KKN-lErDyWZa0SKn0_/s1600-h/DSCN0784.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369093794477809698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3j-XDJ2diyBDDCFa1_z1lV2KOKMvX3bVh0gauGxQwQrCt5BySIs-B1DxTI03fAk-4eIBH_QjEqJ589gpEvT2wBYOvrI21_o6Ewjx8GvpcGkA4AxRVTl_d3Mxh_5KKN-lErDyWZa0SKn0_/s400/DSCN0784.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 225px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN9uCnoWnOCRSrH8PzJpiwZlxje8O84cq4mYoeHyM6J_5PufG8geGCvCx7lCM-VkXUBq_UH8hOpfoCfIy5Cnkpay7SHmcGqo0Cz60ClmjvpS9P73ciUXSBzSCZvs7TE1K_l6jDi9f8iU1/s1600-h/DSCN0783.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369093977710296130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN9uCnoWnOCRSrH8PzJpiwZlxje8O84cq4mYoeHyM6J_5PufG8geGCvCx7lCM-VkXUBq_UH8hOpfoCfIy5Cnkpay7SHmcGqo0Cz60ClmjvpS9P73ciUXSBzSCZvs7TE1K_l6jDi9f8iU1/s400/DSCN0783.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 225px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
I ran into a woman with a pair of bicycle earrings on. Very cool! I'd love a pair of bicycle earrings of my own but I haven't seen any except on her...<br />
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On my ride up Park Avenue, for the second time, I had the pleasure of riding behind a woman hauling about 60 lbs of stereo equipment pumping some great music. She had a helmet on with a bumble bee cover. I knicknamed her "Tunes Lady" and faithfully followed her until I lost her coming out of the 42nd Street tunnel around the MetLife building. She had turned the music off, there was a huge crowd and she disappeared somewhere behind me...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciIVMidLYm0yAiR0OoJ7ezMbiD-ENj51c2TkBm7OXhnTJhSdNLBAwJswICmfCAgqW41oHNOgvSe4ZixDjw4FKPqoqbgwPx7OCnHE7T5OzWyo2HeAWZq1SwF1HKmLZBnLMJgeuaMArQk9y/s1600-h/DSCN0802.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369094393972731026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciIVMidLYm0yAiR0OoJ7ezMbiD-ENj51c2TkBm7OXhnTJhSdNLBAwJswICmfCAgqW41oHNOgvSe4ZixDjw4FKPqoqbgwPx7OCnHE7T5OzWyo2HeAWZq1SwF1HKmLZBnLMJgeuaMArQk9y/s400/DSCN0802.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 225px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4y_0A_8Q60wzOICGJSndKKBOYOlfgzQ2Wr2OmUYzMPLQ7b_2uCfulneZaf7dfXqJ_w3oPyoTeC9uZrBiP0kRbWQkjH49W1rMy3W0z6xqfS5i7elBBFYSvfWD8dYIBhKtjVv_aJHGu5-5f/s1600-h/DSCN0800.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369094566906829938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4y_0A_8Q60wzOICGJSndKKBOYOlfgzQ2Wr2OmUYzMPLQ7b_2uCfulneZaf7dfXqJ_w3oPyoTeC9uZrBiP0kRbWQkjH49W1rMy3W0z6xqfS5i7elBBFYSvfWD8dYIBhKtjVv_aJHGu5-5f/s400/DSCN0800.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 225px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Summer Streets was so much fun. I plan on attending again for the next two Saturdays. If you are in the NYC area you should really stop by and check it out. There are some great activities and just being in the middle of Park Avenue not getting run over by cars and taxis is an experience in and of itself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjCT7S2NtJOh07hzJfn8VmeTlbFzDdCiCWISY_TN-PQ9Qn5NoYTBXGwbkTM9wD1c14I8NiUZx2CpzTm95_aI_BaxQMpQOTzKEjo5FYbRvR93bO2rt9f4IHYSdlPim2F6aHboVykaSDAgJ/s1600-h/DSCN0773.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369093605491761202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjCT7S2NtJOh07hzJfn8VmeTlbFzDdCiCWISY_TN-PQ9Qn5NoYTBXGwbkTM9wD1c14I8NiUZx2CpzTm95_aI_BaxQMpQOTzKEjo5FYbRvR93bO2rt9f4IHYSdlPim2F6aHboVykaSDAgJ/s400/DSCN0773.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 225px;" /></a><br />
I personally think NYC should do this every weekend in the Spring, Summer and Fall. It would help get people up, moving and enjoying all the wonderful things this city has to offer.Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-91656481794885558882009-08-06T13:12:00.003-04:002009-08-06T13:16:33.004-04:00Bike Hack Feature...My story about "<a href="http://velochicnyc.blogspot.com/2009/08/bike-lane-justice.html">Bike Lane Justice</a>" was featured on <a href="http://bikehacks.com/bike-lane-ticketing-part-deux/">Bike Hacks</a>. Thanks!<br /><br />Now if we can just round up some more T.E.As to keep the ticketing going, NYC will be a much safer place to cycle. :)Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-41895683101174363812009-08-05T13:10:00.012-04:002009-08-05T13:58:52.390-04:00NYC = Absense of Chic Cycling?I have been on a search to find chic cyclists in New York City but I am having the hardest time. I'm seeing poorly dressed riders, spandex clad cyclists, wanna-be messengers, dirty looking "hipsters" on fixies and just the general unkempt.<br /><br />New York City is the fashion capital of the world yet fashion seems to be completely absent when it comes to cycling here. I'm confused and perplexed. Am I the only one here that knows you don't need to look like crap to ride a bike? That you don't need to dress up like a spandex superhero to ride a bike?? Am I the only woman that rides in a skirt and stilettos? A nice suit and shoes? A dress-shirt and slacks? It can't be...<br /><br />I've been looking in Midtown, Soho, The Village, Union Square, Lower East Side, Gramercy, The Financial District, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Chinatown, Greenpoint, Astoria, LIC, Williamsburg, Clinton Hill, Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill, Park Slope... You name it. Not one single well-dressed cyclist among them <span style="font-style: italic;">so far</span>. I'm thinking, hoping, that it's partially due to the heat and humidity(???). Maybe those with style have left the city for hip destinations like The Hamptons, Miami Beach or even Europe for vacation??<br /><br />I'm hoping that there are at least a few stylish cyclists still left to be found in this city... Because, right now, <a href="http://www.copenhagencyclechic.com/">Copenhagen</a> this is not. :(Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-37311085934723947572009-08-04T19:58:00.010-04:002009-08-05T12:58:16.429-04:00Bike Lane Justice!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx1Q6KlsV-LOo_q35Psq_SaBnMZYHg3808eq2xvNTzU6t1MxbqhiiIdF87M6TuHHgF43sXqBnrzNI-CJ3mUVItK7qD-PfOLXj3-0panSV47xakQdmYtRAw2d63DMm6LETzaPLH_6hOC9SX/s1600-h/DSCN0692.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx1Q6KlsV-LOo_q35Psq_SaBnMZYHg3808eq2xvNTzU6t1MxbqhiiIdF87M6TuHHgF43sXqBnrzNI-CJ3mUVItK7qD-PfOLXj3-0panSV47xakQdmYtRAw2d63DMm6LETzaPLH_6hOC9SX/s400/DSCN0692.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366264403657008610" border="0" /></a>Riding in New York City is tough enough. The DOT has finally started seriously putting bike lanes up all around the city yet often the last thing you see in a bike lane is an actual bike because it's littered with double-parked cars, used as a loading zone for trucks, an extension of the sidewalk for pedestrians and joggers, hot dog cart parking and other street venders, makeshift motorcycle express lanes... You name it and you'll find it illegally littering the landscape of New York City's bike lanes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4oFyipU-CrqDGXvFHWESZNClb_xW_D7JdxnIYIivW73gBe36s8IqNrY6jLehufxBs5KwNk1Lm6jeZbblhq2Q-qy2MaUvp8ske1JkuaLt7F7HLRP5CsSJNNXjyB17cd22kxmlhDZKmTz3/s1600-h/DSCN0720.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4oFyipU-CrqDGXvFHWESZNClb_xW_D7JdxnIYIivW73gBe36s8IqNrY6jLehufxBs5KwNk1Lm6jeZbblhq2Q-qy2MaUvp8ske1JkuaLt7F7HLRP5CsSJNNXjyB17cd22kxmlhDZKmTz3/s400/DSCN0720.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366263648024295154" border="0" /></a><br />It's<span style="font-style: italic;"> illegal</span> to park, stand, stop or otherwise block a bike lane. Its a $115 dollar fine.<br /><br />Bike lanes are an active lane of traffic. Yet every time I set out on my journey to and from within these city limits on my bike there are a plethora of scofflaws and plain idiots in cars and trucks using the bike lane as their own personal parking.<br /><br />Get your collective illegally-parked asses out of the bike lanes! (I've seen time and time again, a car illegally parked in the bike lane <span style="font-style: italic;">right in front</span> of an available, legal parking spot! WTH?!?)<br /><br />Just today, riding my bike in the bike lane up Chrystie Street just below Broome Street there was a red Chrysler sedan illegally parked, completely blocking the bike lane. It had its hazard lights on but no one was in the car. It literally took up the <span style="font-style: italic;">entire</span> bike lane on an incredibly busy thoroughfare coming straight off of the Manhattan Bridge. There were tons of trucks and cars flying by making it incredibly dangerous for cyclists to dive into the on-coming traffic to avoid the illegally parked Chrysler.<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrakmoqjccJ1Y6-Aw0a5HAbOPJ0gZNqx_blXZw4A9YY5M9M_fPnluV1fCN97Z0au3Rtlmiz6jrarcxG9h5LZHjXo2gAk88nKsZ4fSgL3X9uoMUkLhYMj6TQFQHYDuZZSTKnaFV5EXvhwM/s1600-h/DSCN0691.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrakmoqjccJ1Y6-Aw0a5HAbOPJ0gZNqx_blXZw4A9YY5M9M_fPnluV1fCN97Z0au3Rtlmiz6jrarcxG9h5LZHjXo2gAk88nKsZ4fSgL3X9uoMUkLhYMj6TQFQHYDuZZSTKnaFV5EXvhwM/s400/DSCN0691.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366264231085975986" border="0" /></a><br />I simply turned around and went on a search for a Traffic Enforcement Agent or a cop. I found a T.E.A right down the street on Chrystie between Canal and Grand. I said, <span style="font-style: italic;">"Excuse me, sir, but there is an illegally-parked car blocking the entire bike lane. Its against the law and a $115 fine."</span>. I pointed up the road at the red car and the T.E.A shook his head in agreement and said, <span style="font-style: italic;">"Yes, I see the car. I'll head over. Thank you".</span> The T.E.A then immediately proceeded to walk up the street and ticket the scofflaw. I stopped in front of him, took a picture and thanked him kindly. He nodded, smiled and went back to writing the $115 ticket. Excellent. Now enjoy that $115 fine. Kisses!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Y6q5VxBTOJdDer6C1LdsHv-TayNP1AyZs72mmDLPipKir_XCEtZ2Ak9naRM0_iIwgGCK-AfaozCbPCWa4-rgQIiIFqmXdBd1LNE5Jq4okI0Z6BD2vNKtrY0dNagHDDmUSFjyYrQOiED9/s1600-h/DSCN0695.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Y6q5VxBTOJdDer6C1LdsHv-TayNP1AyZs72mmDLPipKir_XCEtZ2Ak9naRM0_iIwgGCK-AfaozCbPCWa4-rgQIiIFqmXdBd1LNE5Jq4okI0Z6BD2vNKtrY0dNagHDDmUSFjyYrQOiED9/s400/DSCN0695.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366265385127791154" border="0" /></a>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-51934358995332400152009-08-04T11:59:00.015-04:002009-08-04T20:29:58.082-04:00Sands Street Bike Lane Complete<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz8FSwHc1krdOXy-omVDcIFdl15loe1bBuVaPDmVbeQr_libDUiI09Pc5Ydc95CjIW3B_9CKqSUD0tlDzNqxU1sXLcCSL2aOkxJhY5g6vnVikOCRHaKhMaiXi4twSDLHMTEHOMN8u2omL/s1600-h/DSCN0681.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmz8FSwHc1krdOXy-omVDcIFdl15loe1bBuVaPDmVbeQr_libDUiI09Pc5Ydc95CjIW3B_9CKqSUD0tlDzNqxU1sXLcCSL2aOkxJhY5g6vnVikOCRHaKhMaiXi4twSDLHMTEHOMN8u2omL/s400/DSCN0681.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366144451382681218" border="0" /></a>Finally, the construction is complete for the Sands Street "Protected" Bike Lane. It's taken years to come to fruition but now we have a direct, paved, protected path, segregated from cars, to and from the Manhattan Bridge.<br /><br />There is even a dedicated "bike light" at the intersection of Sands and Gold Streets which is excellent but it's glaringly absent at the most important leg of this path: right under the Manhattan Bridge at Sands and Jay Streets. You literally have to go against a red light to cross the street to get to the new protected bike path. Not good... But the protected path itself is great!<br /><br />Now we finally have a safer way to get to and from the Manhattan Bridge which is a major artery for traveling between Manhattan and Brooklyn.<br /><br />More information can be found <a href="http://transportationalternatives.org/files/newsroom/streetbeat/2009/July/0730.html">here</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzp5bLY-_GtFxY2j5ilXzJkQFpuZr8arfFifPtEy0tmTF4S69DyAptZDlNWjXXEZUnETw-zf01P7dAlQxcKgFappSHkbT8I5nfXk1JacQ8haaB3wu0HCx6bMwEvVTRXLw5FnHsInQm-hwj/s1600-h/DSCN0680.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzp5bLY-_GtFxY2j5ilXzJkQFpuZr8arfFifPtEy0tmTF4S69DyAptZDlNWjXXEZUnETw-zf01P7dAlQxcKgFappSHkbT8I5nfXk1JacQ8haaB3wu0HCx6bMwEvVTRXLw5FnHsInQm-hwj/s400/DSCN0680.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366149203896180386" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0YSUoLDOviCxveyQwjOdQo9LYt-1A2xVpQO4eoBqfyrIGPEqMf_dyKXFcbH4bR4a7nKEOYGoRykl55knSzN_Cv2gOgnYC6LegYbcezoTNI9gPRQ5m8Am0Y7cw0pLIg433CQ2p_MU_8xo/s1600-h/DSCN0684.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0YSUoLDOviCxveyQwjOdQo9LYt-1A2xVpQO4eoBqfyrIGPEqMf_dyKXFcbH4bR4a7nKEOYGoRykl55knSzN_Cv2gOgnYC6LegYbcezoTNI9gPRQ5m8Am0Y7cw0pLIg433CQ2p_MU_8xo/s400/DSCN0684.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366149397369533378" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTOue7Bh2s3VJdLyi1Y1plVsKUTRMSeftR2-w5ISB6AO2nICMKmYtkcEl1QjbcIU1AZ4Y7d44bS1U6OariKXzRMcYeuBgThsBPYdsy9JzYk7VfS5u9sfEJqXANhNj48JiuQWodFe6qPDE/s1600-h/DSCN0684.JPG"><br /></a>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-1952341134404451922009-07-31T13:19:00.010-04:002009-07-31T15:11:08.208-04:00"How to Not Get Hit by Cars"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYbkLKwIi6tP7r9oSPe3xGZLS7mDN8irlOuz3oPVpNDEDR6FlCCA9bNpGa4GrfxgRvAXA0Yr14PmBLdoAxMsDgTZpm9bcKlnhPoIXV9NxiCg3Zb40lNjAKn0wBMjlYdMnyhOJZK_PvGyX/s1600-h/Right+Hook.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 198px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYbkLKwIi6tP7r9oSPe3xGZLS7mDN8irlOuz3oPVpNDEDR6FlCCA9bNpGa4GrfxgRvAXA0Yr14PmBLdoAxMsDgTZpm9bcKlnhPoIXV9NxiCg3Zb40lNjAKn0wBMjlYdMnyhOJZK_PvGyX/s400/Right+Hook.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364682755157367442" border="0" /></a>Being on a bicycle often makes you a slow moving target which is even more apparent and potentially deadly in New York City traffic.<br /><br />Now that cycling in NYC has become more "popular", with bike lanes popping up more and more, I am seeing a disturbing number of careless, clueless and <span style="font-style: italic;">dangerous </span>cyclists taking to the streets.<br /><br />These dangerous cyclists ride illegally. These dangerous cyclists ride erratically and unpredictably. They ride on the sidewalk. They ride against traffic. They ride without brakes. They ride at night without any lights. They ride at night without any reflectors. They blow through red lights and stop signs. They plow into pedestrians in the crosswalk. They hug the parked car line -- high probability of getting doored. They race through the streets without a care in the world putting their lives and the lives of others around them in jeopardy.<br /><br />In most cases, I think education is the answer. In others, some stiff fines and potential jail-time is due. But in the case of education, I have dug up a great website listing common collision scenarios and how to avoid getting hit. It's a great website that can aid even the most seasoned of cyclists among us.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Note that you can do everything exactly right and by the book yet still get hit but having this knowledge under your belt can seriously lower your odds of a run-in.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://bicyclesafe.com/">Bicycle Safety: How Not to Get Hit by Cars</a>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-91436828882913490182009-07-24T13:09:00.017-04:002009-08-24T16:36:01.190-04:00Avenir Quick Basket - Part 1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdu81ky5TebA8zxXidanr7v_imPHRJmK8AEmDMyjmI0_e30gok1WlPQEDw7EdgoDx5tRdQo9VEvqDoGaxjgnoCHQp3iwhBdQQrP1-u4eVotN_6op9fAjYkPm-HYNdh51ihAR8vmM0lSDLW/s1600-h/DSCN0621.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362082680676180578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdu81ky5TebA8zxXidanr7v_imPHRJmK8AEmDMyjmI0_e30gok1WlPQEDw7EdgoDx5tRdQo9VEvqDoGaxjgnoCHQp3iwhBdQQrP1-u4eVotN_6op9fAjYkPm-HYNdh51ihAR8vmM0lSDLW/s400/DSCN0621.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
The Bike Accessories Faerie visited me this morning and look at what she left under my pillow: A basket! An Avenir Quick (release) Basket, to be exact. How very sweet. I just leave some money under my pillow and a few days later, there's a box with bicycle goodies in it! <span style="font-style: italic;">Don't ask me how that Faerie keeps getting into my house...</span><br />
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The Avenir basket seems of good quality though I have to mention that the front mesh of the basket was slightly pushed in. The box was dented when it arrived which would probably explain the dent in the basket. I believe this was due to poor packaging and rough handling by what appears to be a clumsy or drunk Bicycle Accessories Faerie. I used my thumbs to push the indentations out and they have now since disappeared.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LVIzdVODPP0Lw1vNBQ8ZDjzmY2rKf6t3hkpZM7dRLxJGznhv9WiVh3FWlIu5c6lZ3Nsow3RkdbyoMU4-uNTfBSqpa_VzKFgtnOpMlN0HPayYeQVKd2tYTs2iKQDhzIEBFg6d043Clh1K/s1600-h/DSCN0619.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362082094213824082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LVIzdVODPP0Lw1vNBQ8ZDjzmY2rKf6t3hkpZM7dRLxJGznhv9WiVh3FWlIu5c6lZ3Nsow3RkdbyoMU4-uNTfBSqpa_VzKFgtnOpMlN0HPayYeQVKd2tYTs2iKQDhzIEBFg6d043Clh1K/s400/DSCN0619.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
The basket is coated steel with a rubber-coated handle that comes with a little black sponge-like grip along with the mounting bracket, hardware, instructions and a tool to mount the basket.<br />
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The mounting bracket is a pretty beefy looking black plastic. It measures approximately 4" long. It's would put it out of the way of most cables on the handlebar which is a good thing.<br />
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The basket itself measures 10.5" wide x 8" deep x 8" high which is a respectable size for a basket. Not too small and not too big. One will be able to fit a backpack, bag, purse, bag of groceries, or a small dog, etc.<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: 85%;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxIZ_GkZUQplDaXEO2feCnV_v5Mg7ZFXxf7A6XZChxmIepd-IcME023pt7ezKLamBgOZpvlhnIWe6Fn12AUhwye3r1nuWLfM3c3PV-fXtPPd0SGRXbGQGexr772SHTN2OhYh5lE1JDf33/s1600-h/DSCN0618.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362078809799032946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxIZ_GkZUQplDaXEO2feCnV_v5Mg7ZFXxf7A6XZChxmIepd-IcME023pt7ezKLamBgOZpvlhnIWe6Fn12AUhwye3r1nuWLfM3c3PV-fXtPPd0SGRXbGQGexr772SHTN2OhYh5lE1JDf33/s400/DSCN0618.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
I will provide a fully detailed review in Part 2 but so far, it looks like a nice, good quality basket that will look great on my bike.Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-62265638002564508952009-07-23T22:01:00.006-04:002009-08-04T20:29:36.210-04:00Lower East Side U-Lock Beating<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AUFiowOcnIw&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AUFiowOcnIw&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed><a class="fdzpqfeigyridobutitq" href="http://www.youtube.com/v/AUFiowOcnIw&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></a><a class="fdzpqfeigyridobutitq" href="http://www.youtube.com/v/AUFiowOcnIw&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></a></object><br /><br />This incident took place at what appears to be the intersection of Allen and Delancy Streets on the Lower East Side in Manhattan. I've ridden it many, many times. It's a busy intersection with a lot of bike traffic due to the Williamsburg Bridge.<br /><br />I can understand some of the fear and frustration a cyclist may feel when a belligerent pedestrian bears down on them but does that warrant a proper beating with what appears to be a <a href="https://www.kryptonitelock.com/OutletProducts/Products/ProductDetail.aspx?cid=1001&scid=1000&pid=1096">Kryptonite New York STD</a> u-lock?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwz3-GrK3bUFl3NYALR3krkypMXcE35rAqDdvMPdq3RaBi3I5APMPN-Q93iOHhW-v3NS_38KgjinH4nVWOL4vnpvi3tV5bf-JksSa63rMGk7a4UVRxFNmdm5kEIg5VCMcerILyFHXLrPk/s1600-h/Ulock+Attack.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwz3-GrK3bUFl3NYALR3krkypMXcE35rAqDdvMPdq3RaBi3I5APMPN-Q93iOHhW-v3NS_38KgjinH4nVWOL4vnpvi3tV5bf-JksSa63rMGk7a4UVRxFNmdm5kEIg5VCMcerILyFHXLrPk/s400/Ulock+Attack.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362085481333278658" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></span></span>*Personally, I think the "beating" was totally not chic. I mean, a Kryptonite NY STD u-lock?? He could have at least used a <a href="https://www.kryptonitelock.com/products/ProductDetail.aspx?cid=1001&scid=1000&pid=1100">Kryptonite Evolution Mini</a>! It's <a href="https://www.kryptonitelock.com/EventPromotions/BikeMessenger.aspx">"the choice of bike messengers worldwide"</a>. It's smaller than the NY-series thus easier to conceal and brandish when middle-aged Asian men "attack". You also get a lot more control with your swings because of it's compact size. Now you can assault just about anyone on the street at a moment's notice and do it in style.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">*sarcasm<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span></span></span>Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777415819498118923.post-47686754218724771452009-07-23T21:04:00.004-04:002009-08-04T20:28:35.582-04:00Welcome!Note the absence of spandex. No yellow jersey. No reflective vest. No clipless pedals. <span style="font-style: italic;">You don't need to dress up like a spandex superhero to ride your bike.<br /><br /></span>This is blog about cycling in New York City. Commuting. Living. Riding. Being. Chic.<br /><br />Let's bring sexy back to cycling!Velo Chic NYChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15083080757595410844noreply@blogger.com1