Just when you thought you had your bike collection finalized someone comes out with something awesome! Available to order at Cyclesmith are Rawland Cycles. Specializing in 650b based framesets, Rawland Cycles offers 2 models. The Olaf single and the Sogn geary. Why only two models? Because the 650b can do a little of everything quite well! Use them as your roadie with a slick on your commute throughout the week; then throw some MTB tires on for a weekend trail ride. Framesets are $650 and can be built up in whatever fashion one desires. Learn more at www.rawlandcycles.com

The 650b wheel size isn’t a new one. It’s been around for more than 70 years! 650b is a wee bit bigger than 26″ and just a tad smaller than 29″. Tire sizes and frame selections have always been limited because of 650b’s touring bike heritage. But thanks to Panaracer and Kirk Pacenti, a high volume mtb 650b tire is now available. With that fat tire a few  companies have followed suit with frames and rims. Being a sucker for trying new things and at the same time fitting a new bike into my budget an epiphany hit me. To make a long story short I knew my 1×1 frame was capable of holding the more ample wheel size and tire. So I laced some Chris King single speed hubs to some 650B Velocity Blunt  rims. Just like the 29er Blunt the 650b Blunt rims practically built themselves! I’m expecting the same bombproof durabuility after the promising build.

My first trail ride with my new wheels and tires was an impressive one. The wheels had that same big wheeled 29er rolling sensation. You know, the one that makes you grin ear to ear and say “whoa!” Now I’ve never really noticed the supposed handling drawbacks of 29ers; but there was no discernable difference in handling from when I was rolling 26″ wheels on my 1×1 compared with the 650b’s.  These wheels breathed new life into my trusty old bike.

If you want to see if your old 26″ steed will except 650b’s give me a bit of advance notice at the shop and we can see if they fit with my wheels. Then see if we can build you a set of your own from there!

It may seem a bit premature but it’s actually but only 9 months away! The Single Speed Worlds after a 2 year hiatus are once again state side. If you believe in single speeds…clap your hands! If you don’t,  come on down to the shop and chat with any one of the Cyclesmith crew about the virtues of single speeding offroad. Or on for that matter!

www.sswc08.com   

(The 928, full record, Zipps, and Deda)

(Milano, sweet Italian Cruiser)

(Pista, one gear, always hot)

(Silvia, for the donne)

(Campy on the C2C, an italian bike deserves it)

(even mountain bikes)

At last!!  There is snow on the ground in SLC!!  Of course, that means commuting to work is more fun, albiet slightly more complicated.  The new Endura Gridlock Pants and Endura Convert Waterproof Jacket are awesome additions to my commuting attire - I arrive at work dry, warm, and comfy - Not to mention on time because I avoid all the traffic hassles. 

Of course a good lighting system this time of year is essential….The Knog TadPole Bar-End lights I’ve added provide great side and rear visibility.  It’s kind of nice looking like a mobile X-mas tree this time of year too - flashing lights everywhere!!

 Keep in Ridin!

A blank canvas! That’s what you start with when building up a bike from a frame. Being a sucker for all things Salsa I needed a replacement to my old and in the way commuter. Ever since I made the mistake of getting rid of my Salsa Ala Carte 5 years ago I’ve wanted another one. It’s been a slow train coming but here it is! New Salsa Ala Carte steel frameset with WTB Dirt Drop Bar and loads of other sweet yet sensible parts! Swing on into the shop and find a new canvas, or see what we can do with your old one to give it a unique look or fresh feel. Bicycles can be rolling works of art!

Have you seen this sticker? Its a program spread-headed by SLC’s Bicycle Collective. In their own words:

“Bicycle Benefits is a year-round sustainable bicycle commuter program designed to reward cyclists for their commitment to clean air, personal health, and use of pedaling energy.  The program also intends to decrease parking demand, promote helmet use, and increase cyclist’s safety by increasing the number bikes on our roads.  Drive Less, Feel More, Save Money.  Get your helmet stickers or become a Business Member today and start feeling and experiencing  Bicycle Benefits!”

The short and dirty: buy a sticker, get discounts, support local advocacy, ride your bike!

Click here for a list of Bicycle Benefits Businesses in Salt Lake. Cyclesmith is proud to be a part of the Bicycle Benefits Program.

Four Wheels Bad, Two Wheels Good!

Pure Hot Fire:

Salsa Dos Niner….

Still the same beautiful “just right” amount of travel. Want to ride the Dos Niner or any of our other 29ers? Come to our Wednesday Morning MTB Ride. Ride, be happy, be merry. And… Bring us coats!

Coats for Kids!
Please help us keep those kids who may be less fortunate, warm this winter. Participate in our COATS FOR KIDS charity drive! Bring any new or used coat or blanket (any size/clean/good condition) to the shop (250 E. 1300 S.) and we will give you a 2% discount off any purchase up to 10% per visit.

Easy math 5 coats = 10% off!
4 coats take 8% off your purchase
3 coats takes 6% off and 2 takes 4% off…
you get the idea. Blankets work as well!

This applies to anything in the store… Bikes, clothes, wheels, accessories,
and you can do it over and over again from November 15^th thru December 31^st.

Just keep bringing in coats and blankets and we will pile on the savings!!
(no purchase necessary)

Help us at cyclesmith make it a warm holiday season for all.

Happy Holidays