Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Bike To Work Without Wrinkles ?

If you've tried to commute by bike and carry clothes that normally hang in your closet, you're like me and have tried a lot of different things. The best solution I ever had was a dry cleaning arrangement with our uniform company to take my personal clothes with our shop's uniforms and bring them back weekly, cleaned and pressed. Then all I had to do was ride and change at work - and it was close enough, even in Florida, where I didn't need a shower. However, I'm not at that company anymore and I don't believe that this is a carbon neutral behavior anyway - so forget that idea - okay ?

So, how you might ask, do I commute by bike without wrinkles. Well, you leave it up to a group of inventive, dedicated cyclists and you'll find your answer. Two Wheel Gear a Canadian company located in Calgary, Alberta - does just that with their new Suit Bag for your bike. I like this concept because it allows you to carry other things and it integrates with a standard-sized rear bicycle rack. Plus, the price is the same whether you're paying in American dollars or Canadian... so, you can't feel beat up about that ! Stop by their website, give them a call or drop them a line telling them that JD Howell from Cut20.com sent you. If you do, please leave me some feedback so I know to tell others about the quality and value of their products... it's not cheap at $150 US/CN, but good stuff never is.

See you out there, on my bike of course... JD

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Monday, February 18, 2008

Lance Armstrong's New Cycling Store


Click on the title to read today's Gristmill story about Lance Armstrong and a new bike store he's opening in Austin to encourage bicycle commuting - wow ! And, if you're not currently a Grist reader or supporter - please be encouraged to do both. Grist is where you can go to get your Climate update, as well as interesting and often funny twists on our fate... hmm.

There's a good chance you'll spot my posting on that article. I refer to several things people can use to help with commuting and continued use of bicycles for transportation... which include Xtracycle, electric assisted bikes, trikes and recumbents. There are also numerous other projects going on out there that are related to electric modality.

I only wish most or all of these companies would implore their customers to install solar photovoltaics at the same time they're planning to plug-in to the power grid. Otherwise, most places are just burning more coal, and most utilities are only 30-33% efficient in their energy conversion. Solar is less efficient, but it doesn't burn coal once it's installed - problem solved.

Wouldn't it be interesting to see Lance invest in an electric bike company with a built-in Xtracycle and attachable side car for the 2nd and 3rd kiddies or dog...???

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