Building a Fixed Gear - Fixie - For Fun, Exercise and Transportation

Remember the glee of peddling your tricycle? When the pedals were moving, so were your legs. That is the way it is with a fixed gear bicycle or fixie. If the bike is moving, so are your legs. A fixie can be enjoyable to ride and give you a decent workout at the same time. The beauty of a fixie is in its simplicity.

Building a fixie from a former road bike is pretty simple. If you have the time or patience, look for a road bike from the 80s or 90s. Most of the time these can be picked up relatively inexpensively. A handy feature on an older road bikes is road dropouts that are not of the vertical type. This allows the wheel to be moved back and forth in the dropouts to adjust the chain tension of the fixed gear.

Once you have acquired a road bike, it is time to start the task of removing unnecessary parts. Remove the chain, all derailleurs, shifters, and rear brake. This will also necessitate the removal of the rear brake lever from the handlebars. Of course you can also change the handlebars to a bullhorn style or straight style. I have seen a lot of mods where the drop bars are turned upside down and cut in length to the desired look.

Hopefully you have removable chainrings on the crankset. You will only need one and typically use the smallest. Most often the small chainring is placed on the outside position.

An important step is to determine the gear ratio to use on your fixie. Count the teeth on the remaining chainring and find a gear ratio website to figure out how many teeth the rear cog should be for the desired gear ratio. Something in the low to mid sixties would give you plenty of gear for puttering around. If you want to keep up with the urban traffic, something in the low 80s should be sufficient. As you become a more proficient at riding your fixie, you will become more adept at pedaling with a high cadence. Typical road bike chain is 3/32 pitch. Normal track bike chain is 1/8. To keep costs low, a 3/32 cog is the best way to go because the front chainring and existing road chain will be 3/32 (just needs to be shortened).

Chain alignment is critical. The transition from the rear cog to the front chainring should be a straight shot. Chances are the original road bike wheel has a built-in gear assembly. In this case you will need to acquire a different wheel. It can be a road bike wheel with a threaded hub or a special track setup. If the rear wheel is a standard road wheel, you may need to add spacers to the hub before applying the cog to achieve the proper chain alignment.

Once you have the chain alignment figured out you can determine the chain length. Use a chain tool to achieve the correct length and adjust the tension. You want a little bit of slack in the chain when the wheel is located properly in the dropouts.

Okay. We've removed the rear brake. We have removed the shifters and derailleurs. We have removed one of the chain rings from the crankset. And we have found the proper rear wheel and cog. We have a shortened the chain and adjusted the tension. Now it is time to enjoy your fixie!

Safety Tips When Biking at Night

Cycling is fun, the feel of the rush of the wind across your face and the workout on your calves and hamstring is enough reason for you to go out on your bike no matter what time of the day it is. Whether you're wanting to go out on your bicycle for a quick trip to the convenience store or you're trying to burn that extra helping of ice cream you ate over the weekend or you're the ultra health buff wanting that cardio exercise you get from cycling, you should always put your safety first when you ride your bike after sunset.

Unlike going for a ride during the day, cycling at night, unfortunately, poses some safety issues any cyclists should be concerned about. Unless you emit a green glow, chances are other motorists might not see you readily until their headlights hit the reflectors on your pedals or seat.

Wearing brightly-colored clothing would help other motorists on the road see you at a far greater distance compared when you wear dark clothing. There are cycling gear now sold with neon orange or green color. These clothing, though, would only help if there is a little amount of light.

There are safety lights for bicycles now sold in the market. These lights attach at the base of your seat or to the frame or even on the handlebar provide the much needed illumination for other motorists to see you on the road. In a moonless night, you can even attach a as a headlight, allowing you to see where you're going and other motorists to see you as well.

These safety lights are battery operated and very light weight. The easy, no-fuss installation can be fitted to any bike of model and make.

So next time you decide to go cycling out at night, take time to consider road safety and attach along safety lights to your bicycle. A safe workout is a good workout!

Learning About Europe Bike Tours

Europe Vacations to Experience the Old World

If you're one of the individuals that enjoy history and learning more about it, a European vacation is one of the best ways to relive the old world. When it comes to historical spots, Europe has more of these than any place in the world. Whether it' museums, castles or galleries, you'll get the opportunity to experience the old world everywhere you look. Some of the historical countries in Europe include France, Italy, Spain, Austria, United Kingdom and Germany.

Choosing Which Europe Countries To Visit

Europe is a huge place, so you wont' be able to visit all the interesting places in just a few days or a week. Most people have a one or two week vacation. With just a week or two to spend visiting and sightseeing, you'll need to decide which country you want to see most and plan your vacation around this country. You may have time for one or two countries so plan accordingly.

Plan Your Historical Vacation

You'll find many historical and scenic countries in Europe with Spain, France, Germany and the United Kingdom being on the top of the list. You'll find a lot of history in these four countries. France is probably your best choice if time is limited. Here you'll see the Eiffel Tower, a popular site for many years. The world-famous Louvre Museum, which holds the Mona Lisa painting, is also a place you won't want to miss. If you're really into history, you won't want to miss seeing the Arc de Triomphe. This is one of the most important monuments in Europe for looking into the past.

If you're done seeing your favorite spots in France, you can always cross the border to the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is full of scenic locations to see. You won't want to miss seeing the Trafalgar Square, the Parliament, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul's Cathedral.

France has always been known for it's ability to bring romance to their visitors. This can be the perfect spot for a romantic honeymoon or romantic getaway. Europe bike tours are very popular activities for locals as well as tourists. These bike tours can be customized to where you want to go and how far. Exercises, meeting new people are just a couple reasons why you may want to check into Europe bike tours. What better way to see the country then on a bike with your loved ones and friends.

Cycling Training - Extremely Important

Extreme Mountain Biking

As with most sports, and most activities in general, the "limits" of mountain biking have been pushed back, to a new area called extreme. While biking on the rocks and rugged ground of the American countryside is challenging enough in most eyes, there are always a handful of people who want to see how far they can go beyond what might be considered reasonable.

The key difference is the intensity of the riding, always seeking higher elevations, steeper inclines and rougher terrain to test the endurance of both person and bike. This variation on mountain biking, of course, demands more of the human body, so cycling training becomes even more essential for those taking part.

To Be An Extreme Mountain Biker

To take part in this new sport, and to be successful, will require a commitment to being in top physical shape. In addition, the bike and protective gear used by the rider will have to be the best available. A bike made for the demands of extreme mountain biking will be a bit different than the mountain bike used by a recreational rider. This can translate into additional cost, because the frame, wheels and tires will have to be very strong and reliable.

Most of those with experience in extreme mountain biking will urge beginners to put away the idea of buying a used bike, simply because a new, specially-designed bike will be more reliable and durable. In addition, extreme mountain bike participants should do all they can to ensure that the bike they ride fits them physically. For the serious mountain biker, the extra money spent up front will pay off in the long run, in success and safety.

Before starting cycling training for this sport, riders should invest in the best helmet they can afford. Extreme mountain biking didn't get the adjective "extreme" by accident, so safety has to be a prime consideration. A durable helmet, slightly thicker than a regular riding helmet, is probably in order. Experience has taught other riders that a top-quality helmet can be the difference between life and death in a dangerous sport.

When considering extreme mountain biking, the individual should also take some time to put together the correct clothing, probably before even beginning cycling training. Comfortable clothing that does not distract the rider is crucial in this demanding sport. Bike apparel designed only for mountain bike riding is best, of course.

While the new bike, helmet and other gear may be ready, no one should begin this sport (or any other) without being in good physical condition. A reasonable amount of time should be spent with cycling training, to build strength and stamina. The rewards for success in extreme mountain biking come at a cost, measured in preparation, conditioning and commitment.

Get the Right BMX For You

BMX biking can be a fun activity and something people of all ages can do. It verges a little on the extreme as there is a thrill and risk factor involved, but you will not see many people getting injured from this sport as long as they practice and use the right equipment in order to stay safe when out partaking in this.

Whether it is your first BMX and you have been enthralled by the excitement and possibility of even making a living out of becoming a BMX pro if you wanted to and go good enough, or you have been doing the activity for a while, it can be difficult to make sure that you get the right BMX set up for you and your needs.

Most BMX frames will work for most people, there is not a lot of difference between them, but there are some. Some people find they just do not get on with some frames whilst others are great. If you are getting your first bike then ask whether you can try a few out in the shop first, or borrow a friend's to see what you think.

Some people just do not like any frame, but it may not actually be the problem they think it is. You see, a lot of the problems that people have are not to do with the frame at all, but rather the set up. Make sure you get the right chain, wheels, cranks and suchlike or any frame will just feel bad to you and you may find BMX biking less enjoyable.

One thing that can be a factor you need to decide on is the head tube. This may not mean a lot to you, or you may understand what it means, basically though, the head tube is something that can vary the riding experience for you in quite a great way.

To get the right BMX for you then you need to know what you want to use it for. Are you going to be using the half pipe, do you loves jumps or are you looking to be able to do circuits? Well, this is something to think about before you actually purchase the frame.

If you want a bike which is good to turn for tracks then go for a steep head tube, whereas you should go for a relaxed rider for half tubes and jumps as this will not weave about and possibly cause a dangerous landing.

Top tube length is also important so look up which length you will want for your height. If you select these two factors rather carefully then you should have a frame that suits you. Wheelbase can also make an impact, with a longer wheelbase being slower to turn and more stable.

Make sure tyres are well inflated, that you have a fairly thin chain and that brakes are adjusted to be tight enough. These factors make sure that your BMX bike will go well. All that is left is to test it out and see how it feels for you.

Choosing Bicycle Clothing - Helmet First

Mountain Bike Helmets - Which One?

When a person is considering the sport of mountain biking, there are a number of issues to deal with beyond the type of bike, wheels and tires that will fit the terrain. Mountain bikers should put some serious thought into bicycle clothing, helmets and so on. The correct helmet can literally mean the difference between life and death. Serious injury can be avoided with the proper mountain bike helmet.

Studies have shown quite clearly that those who do not have the proper helmet are much more likely to have a serious head injury from a mountain biking accident. It is simple: To lower the chances of serious injury, choose a quality biking helmet when purchasing other bicycle clothing and accessories. The choices are there and most of them are of top quality. This is not a place to try to save a couple of dollars, so it would be wise to make sure that the biking budget includes more than enough for protective headgear.

First and foremost, the shopper should talk with an expert at a mountain biking shop to get a feel for what materials are most desirable in a helmet. Durability is essential and there are national and state standards for most protective bicycle clothing and headgear. In addition to a durable exterior, a good biking helmet should probably have a lining that is soft and comfortable. Overall, quality workmanship should be obvious.

Adjusting The Mountain Bike Helmet

The bottom line: Wearing the correct bike helmet may save your life one day. The pros at the bike shop should tell you that a helmet should fit correctly when it slides forward slightly on the head and rests about ½ inch from the eyebrows. Strap adjustment is also critical. A loose helmet is not much better than no helmet at all. (Most top quality helmets have a "y" or triangle shape to them that fit around the ears.) The chin strap should be snug but not too tight.

Moving the head back and forth will tell the individual if the helmet fits well and is adjusted properly. Some bike pros state that the skin on the forehead should move with the helmet if it is properly secured on the head. If there is discomfort from the helmet being too loose or too tight, start over with another helmet or with the adjustments. It would be almost impossible to spend too much time on this critical part of mountain biking.

Bicycle Clothing - Built For Safety

Mountain Bike Clothing

While most experienced bikers don't necessarily choose bicycle clothing for protection, there are times when an outer layer of protection will be quite welcome. For instance, mountain biking is thrilling and for riders at every level, very demanding. When inevitable fall happens, it would be nice to know that the shirt, shorts, etc. chosen for comfort and appearance are also durable enough to protect the rider from some scrapes and cuts. Fortunately, designers and manufacturers have taken this into account, using material for bicycle clothing that will provide some protection.

Those new to the sport, and those who take an occasional turn in the hills and valleys around their home, might choose the longer pants of a tracksuit, as well as a long-sleeved shirt and helmet. Some flexible gloves are a good idea, to protect the hands during a spill. The more experienced mountain biker, someone who rides as much as possible, might purchase bicycle clothing specifically for riding on rough terrain and unpaved trails. The three key factors to look for in this clothing are comfort, protection and fabrics that breath.

Cycling Jerseys And Shorts

There is another option for the upper half of the body when it comes to choosing bicycle clothing. Cycling jerseys are made specifically for the physical conditions and body function of mountain biking, road biking and so on. Most of the mountain biking jerseys are made of a special fleece called microfleece, though other brands use similar fabrics that are comfortable and quick to dry.

Cycle shorts usually have two layers of fabric in the seat area, primarily for the comfort of the rider. When a rider hits some serious bumps on the mountain trail, or spends a long time cruising on a paved road with occasional pedalling, this double thickness will be quite welcome.

Cycle Gloves

Not everyone considers wearing gloves while biking, though this might be a wise choice in mountain biking. Overlooked but essential, bicycle clothing should generally include gloves to protect the hands from blisters during normal riding conditions and to protect the hands if the rider and bike should happen to fall. Some experienced riders suggest looking at the back of a pair of good cycling gloves. This area should be aerated, to allow the hands to dry and to breath. In addition, this part of the glove is often double layered for protection the hands.

Consider as well, investing in good quality gear for wet weather. It may not be necessary to buy all the new stuff, or even most of, but some bad weather gear is always nice to have available.

Custom Road Bikes

People who consider mountain biking seriously would prefer custom bikes rather than the models that are produced in mass which lines the shelves of the discount shops and departments. A custom bicycle would be designed to fit only one single rider and to fit his exact measurements. A correct fit would improve the experience the rider would have immensely. This means an efficient performance depending on the movement of a person's body. Bicycle produced in mass are usually made in a tiny range of sizes. Getting the exact fit is almost impossible, that would leave the rider with no option other than working hard to compensate on the mismatch of the requirements and resulting in the easier wear out of the bicycle because of improper usage.

It is always preferred to have a clear picture on the kind of bicycle you want prior to shopping for a bicycle that is custom made. Various goals that you have as a cyclist would help the manufacturer decide on the options they would make while designing a bicycle for you. Have an answer for few questions like: do you want to ride primarily for social reasons? If that is the case, when who it that would be riding with you, may is be your friends, children or racers training you. Incase you wish to ride for exercise or recreation, what is the distance that you would like to cover and how fast? What type of track would you cover? Custom fit is mostly for athletes as a correct fit would make sure to receive an optimum biomechanical efficiency that gives an important edger for a rider.

Custom bicycles even provide the rider an option to give a visual statement. For few, performance takes the priority while style is also becoming an important thing for many. It is as well possible for more customization of the look of the efficiency oriented bikes like the racing and mountain bikes, it is the area of choppers, beach cruisers and low riders that have the most stunning modifications visually are made. Most of these manufacturers provide parts and accessories in a vast variety of materials and colors that makes easy for any rider to build a strong personal statement with their own bicycle.

Due to the recent rush or surge in the popularity of custom-made bicycles, you have a wide range of manufacturers to select from. Most of them can be got on internet that give the customer an opportunity for browsing through various options and styles prior to deciding on something. If you wish to have a customized fit and however are not in a position to make it the shop, then you have various online manufacturers that allow you to give instructions for noting the correct measurements, which allow riders to give them with needed information to make sure they give you the best road bikes with the correct fit for you.

Bicycle Seats Should Be Chosen With Care

Perhaps the most essential investment you will ever make when planning to take on the adventurous trails of mountain slopes is buying a mountain bike which is a completely distinguished bike whose make answers the several requirements of bikers on winding trails and uneven roads. The bike is obviously subjected to a lot of pressure on the tracks so if you come across knobby and wide tires for your mountain bike consider it as normal because they allow for good shock absorption and added traction for the rough scaling ahead. Make a wise choice so far as selecting your mountain bike tires is concerned. It will stand you in good stead over the years.

Lately, more and more bikers are applying front as well as rear suspension today in their mountain bikes and it is a common sight to see even the front wheel suspension on almost every mountain bike. There are many bikes that includes bar ends on the handlebars, and riser handlebars are also well accepted. The circumference of the wheels on these mountain bikes is just a little bit more than 2 feet and it is also usual to see larger wheels too.

Broadly speaking, there are four different types of mountain bikes that come with fully rigid, soft and hard trail, dual or full suspension. The fully rigid bikes come with a frame with a rigid fork and a fixed rear without suspension. The hard tail also does not include a rear suspension but a front suspension to compensate. The soft tail includes a frame with limited rear suspension and is activated with the aid of flex of the frame rather than pivots. The dual or full suspension bikes have a rear suspension and front suspension fork; the rear wheels are moved by pivots.

Typically, the design of the bike is informed by the nature of the terrain it must ply on, and there are a variety to pick from, like 4-cross racing (4X), mountain cross, single speed, dirt jumping - street and urban, trial, downhill (DH), freeride (FR), endure/all mountains (AM), cross country (XC), and north shore usage.

With the sport gaining ground among more and more people, mountain biking is emerging as a mainstream activity and the styles more aggressive with frames of newer designs, lighter, stronger with a better ability to cross over obstacles than previous models. The mountain bikes that are available nowadays come in a variety of speeds like 21, 24, 27 together with three gears in the front while perhaps 7, 8 and 9 gears on the back wheel.

The League of American Cyclists

The League of American Bicyclists is a nationwide organization dedicated to promoting bicycling for fun, fitness, and transportation. The group works through advocacy and education and works for a bicycle-friendly America.

The League of American Bicyclists works to further cycling in the United States by representing the interests of the nation's 57 million cyclists. The League has a current membership of 300,000 cyclists. This includes 40,000 individual members and 600 affiliated organizations. The league works to bring better cycling to communities across the country and has been doing so since 1880.

The League started as the League of American Wheelmen (LAW) in 1880. The organization started to work on the rutted roads destroyed by horsemen, wagon drivers, and pedestrians. The first push was for paved roads. This was seen as the best way to expand the popularity of the newly discovered sport. Even in 1880, there were more than 100,000 cyclists in the United States. As a result of the League of American Bicyclists, the United States had paved roads in many areas before the car or automobile became popular.

Current advocacy actions include changing the look of America. This is being done town by town on a city by city basis. The League is working to change cities and towns into bicycle friendly places. In addition, they work to provide materials and training courses to help people feel much more secure about getting on their bikes.

These education projects are given to people free of charge. The theory being that the more people that feel safe on their bikes, the more people that will use them for transportation.

The education and community programs both utilize the five Es. These are Education, Enforcement, Engineering, Evaluation, and Encouragement. This is part of the League's Bicycle Friendly Community program. In order to be part of this, a community must implement the 5 Es.

One of the League's main activities is orchestrating and coordinating National Bike Month. National Bike Month occurs every May and is designed to increase the knowledge of bicycle safety and the risks faced by bicyclists everywhere. National Bike Month features National Bike Week and also National Bike to Work Day.

Through time, the league has had its ups and downs. It failed to exist on two separate occasions. It was re-formed in its current run in 1965 and was re-named the League of American Bicyclists in 1994. Former members of the League have included the Wright Brothers, John D. Rockefeller, and Diamond Jim Brady.