> December 2013 | CITY GIRL RIDES

Uncommon Goods Bicycle Gift Guide

12/18/2013



As we start to check all the names our gift lists, it’s time to start thinking about presents for those who love bikes! While a classic sweater and book are typically found in a present, I gathered up some unique presents that will surprise your avid cycling loved ones that is both environmentally friendly and supports good causes, major bonus! From printed totes to bike bells, here are some of my favorite gifts from Uncommon Goods that are sure to make the perfect addition to any bike if your in a hurry to wrap up the holiday.

Like what you see? Uncommon Goods has an array of gifts that you can check out that are unique from personalized gifts here, to for her gifts here, and for holiday perfect gifts check out more here. Not only are these gifts uniquely designed but they're handcrafted and created with harmony with the environment and without harm to animals or people that supports causes, smalls business, and charities around the world!

Now that's what I call giving!

Guest Blogging & Randoms

12/16/2013


Hey pals, I did a little guest blog today for Brooklyn Bicycles Co. I shared a little holiday wish list of things I would love for gearing up after the frost melts. I hope you like. I love Brooklyn Cruisers by the way, gorgeous bikes to drool over! Check out their rides and follow them on Twitter.

Also, Heather from Brooklyn Bicycle Co did a hot piece for us recently too, check it out here.

In addition, I just joined the Instagram party, I mean I've been around but recently started sharing my photos, if you like puppies, bikes, NYC, and California then this is your thing (hint hint, follow me).

Chic Gear To Get The Biker Babe This Holiday

12/13/2013

As the holidays approach, I've been perusing around the webs for the hottest bicycle picks to gift the biker babe. To help me make this search fun, I asked some friends to share their favorite bike gear. This wish-list pick is from Heather of Brooklyn Cruiser, a bicycle company based in Brooklyn, NY. Visit their website and especially their beautiful bicycles at Brookly Bicycle Co.

When Christina asked that we share some of Brooklyn Bicycle Co.'s wishlist picks with City Girl Rides, the short answer was: "the Vintage Wicker Creel Bike Basket at Eleanor's, period." Never before have I coveted a bike accessory so hard. (I mean, SO hard. That's one darn fine piece of basket!)

Alas, call it a symptom of East Coast Winter-living (grey skies, white snowfall, too-early nightfall, and alllll those miles of sidewalk that frame our days…), but I'm feeling a harmony to all things neutral. And the best way to harness their full potential? Well, that would be a serious dose of technicolor.

1. When it comes to a finely curated wardrobe, the value of a versatile piece cannot be challenged. Enter Vespertine's SASH-AY SCARF. It's the stuff of endless interpretations and doubles duty as an accessory fit to transition with the seasons. Put that reflective button to use and get creative -- as a scarf, this one can take on countless drape configurations and, come Spring, it rocks well as a stylin' sash. We're talkin' high-functioning luxe -- soft merino wool, hand-woven Heritage Flash Tweed, and discreet reflective stripes that come alive in direct light.

2. It's no secret that we're full of adoration for all helmets Belle. And this here Paper Cranes (Light Grey) headpiece (with its muted, warm tones and bold graphic) really speaks to our minimalist tendencies. And don't mistake the hand-painted origami as precious -- a UV-protected varnish keeps its surface scratch and water-resistant. This is art at its utilitarian best.

3. Now, while we'd love to say that the one thing a proper Bike Babe cannot leave home without is, well, her bike… There IS something we tend to go-to before wheeling out our two-wheeled chariots. And that's our bag. Freitag's JOAN has the brands design-y, modern feel in spades, with functionality to match. It's expandable, can take on your yoga mat, and its mounting straps can be zipped away from sight once you've arrived, making for seamless handlebar-to-arm-candy.

4. Houndstooth is a bit of a mainstay in the chic department -- depending on what you pair it with, it's a pattern to cover all vibes, cute to classy. (Really, who feels the same way every single day…) Cleverhood’s Electric Houndstooth Rain Cape has also got some superhero features on the DL -- hidden reflective thread (at night -- poof! -- you're a lit grid!), Uretek zipper details, magnetic armhole closures, and a fitted hood that can be worn under your helmet. Did we mention you'll stay dry?

5. And now for that dash of flash. A good color pop goes a long way when your primary palette is a super-urbane collection of neutrals. Where better to see the flash than right before your very eyes -- Ray Ban's iconic Wayfarer Folding Flash Lenses do the trick, and then some. Copper, Yellow, Green and Orange colorways mean a hue for all, and every pair folds down into a compact, single-lense-sized stasher, handy flip-top case included.

Winter Cycling 101

12/11/2013

Too cold to ride a bicycle? Trust me, I hear you! However, there are winter benefits that you'll appreciate while gliding around on two wheels with rosy cheeks while busting the winter blues. Without another word why riding your bike during the winter is doable, now’s the time to liberate your bicycle from the storage room. With just a few easy, street-savvy refinements to your bike (think fenders!), wardrobe and bike-handling skills, you’ll be ready to roll in comfort, style, and safety, whether to the office, along the river, or between your favorite boutiques. Just take note, this advice may not suit every region, so be cautious, check your weather forecast and know what you can handle.

Comfort rules:  While there’s no need for special clothing, choosing looks from your closet that move with you make mounting and pedaling your bike a snap. That said, some cycling-specific pieces, like Outlier’s slim black daily riding pant pair up nicely with your Rick Owens biker jacket. For colder climates, a down jacket like this Laundry waistcoat is perfect for extra warmth.

Be cool and hydrated

It’s okay to feel chilly when you walk out the door. You’ll warm up within the first 10 minutes of pedaling. Still, carrying an extra layer in your bag keeps you prepared for whatever the day brings. Plus, keeping hydrated is a major must do in the chill so make sure to carry water with you.

Be Kind To Extremities

Exercising in cold weather sends blood flowing to your core. A hat under your helmet, warm gloves, extra socks, and a scarf or gaiter help keep extremities toasty and seal out uncomfortable drafts. Polarized sunglasses like these Smith Optic sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection add a little protection to your eyes too.. 

Get Ride-Ready

Especially if your bike has been unused for a while, have your local bike shop check the tires, brakes and gears. Since the sun set earlier, make sure your visible, your lights are packing fresh batteries and that your bell works.

Fenders Are Your BFFs

Avoid the heartbreak of greeting everyone at work with, ahem, slush butt. Some bikes, like the Globe Daily 3 Step-Through, come with city-ready features like fenders and baskets.

Enjoy The View

A leisurely pace not only makes your ride safer, but also cuts down on perspiration and lets you savor sights like the sweeping view of a skyline, or a romantic sunset along the river. When braking, pump gently rather than squeezing.

Steer Clear Of These

Metal or painted surfaces become slick in cold weather. Puddles can hide road debris. Your roommate will also tell you to avoid tatted guys on fixed-gear bikes. Just sayin’.

Beware Of Pigeons
These birds get sluggish in freezing temperatures, sometimes making them unexpectedly hard to dodge.

photo: helloitsvalentine

Cute Dog Bike Baskets

12/09/2013

Hauling your four legged furry friends can be challenging when you're taking them around on foot some distance, but if you're on bike, these dog bike baskets are perfect for the journey. So whether you have a dog to cycle with or a cycling friend with dog, consider these baskets as a gift for those who love an adventure with their furry friends. Not only would travel with pets be easier but they'll love the wind in their faces and adventure of having a grand time with you.

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