The Bike Evangelist

Rough Stuff.

2010-02-01T19:39:00.007-05:00

The author and his Gaansari Whirlwind 29er at Fremont-Older in Cupertino, California

I've recently committed to participating in the 2010 Rough Riders Rally in Fairfax, California, scheduled for July 23-25.

Organized by adventure-loving cyclist Chris Kostman, this event promises to provide all the thrills I've been reading about since my late-1980s Bicycle Guide-induced fixation with northern California.

As a California resident (since late May 2006), I now appreciate the unlimited cycling opportunities available both on road and off. Kostman's Rough Riders Rally mixes the two, and by choosing the birthplace of the modern mountain bike, he's hit a home run.

Required reading from Kostman, circa 1993, from an article he wrote for Bicycle Guide.

Greg LeMond: Coming Full Circle

2007-02-23T17:45:00.000-05:00

Palo Alto Bikes: Sam, Greg and Henri - Feb. 21, 2007

Greg LeMond inspired me to become a bicyclist in the late 1980s. Like most Midwesterners, I only saw Greg on Famous Cycling videos or through the pages of VeloNews. The historic Graham Watson photographs were etched in my mind, and his incredible final time trial in the 1989 Tour de France catapulted him from a famous pro cyclist in Europe to mainstream superstar.

You could say my good friend Steve Smith introduced me to Greg in late 1988. We were both working at Johnson Hill Press in Fort Atkinson, WI, and Steve's curious collection of wool jerseys and racing posters intrigued me. Stephen Roche was that year's world road champion, Andy Hampsten had won the Giro d'Italia in May, and LeMond was still recovering from an accidental gunshot wound the previous April. Bicycle Guide, Winning, and VeloNews were my main source of knowledge, and the pure joy of discovering bicycling at age 22 was enough to supplant my recent retirement from competitive soccer.

Fast forward to August 1995; LeMond had just announced Trek's acquisition of the LeMond Bicycle Company, and Trek's Dean Gore contacted me to write the first LeMond catalog. "Would you be able to visit Greg at his home in Medina, MN and draft a catalog by mid September?" Dean asked. The timing was perfect. I was scheduled to race in the 24 Hours of Buck, just 25 minutes away from Greg's home.

While endurance events have never been my strong suit, I did relish the idea of getting in some saddle time with friends, then going to Greg LeMond's home on official business. All the trophies, jerseys and medals I saw on video and in print were there before my own eyes in the LeMond home that Sunday afternoon in 1995, and Greg was kind enough to share his time with me.

Of course, many people wanted to spend time with Greg over the years. His charismatic nature and approachability made it easy, but it wasn't until a few days ago that I got my chance to reconnect with Greg, this time in Palo Alto, CA.

LeMond's new Tete de Course model - "head of the field."

LeMond was in town to promote his line of bicycles, share racing stories, and talk about his honorary chairmanship for the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure. His middle son Scott, whom I met when he was a chubby 8-year-old, joined him at PAB. Now 19 and a recent cycling convert (like his older brother Geoff), Scott sat patiently on the sidelines while his dad regaled the capacity crowd at Palo Alto Bikes. One of Greg's first sponsors in the mid 1970s was Avocet, owned by Bud and Neal Hoffacker, also owners of PAB.

LeMond signing Henri's yellow Campy cap.

After speaking for 90 minutes, LeMond spent another 90 minutes-plus signing autographs, shaking hands with old friends, and giving of his time. A major highlight for me was seeing Greg spend time talking with my kids about sports, art, architecture and bicycling. His steely blue eyes and familiar smile made me and my family feel right at home, and we're grateful for opportunities like these to spend time with guys like Greg.

No. 64, Vol. 5 - New Contact Info.

2006-06-02T17:23:00.001-05:00

Three days, 2,468 miles, three snow squalls, 18 rain drubbings, and nearly $1,000 in diesel fuel later, we arrived in San Francisco around midnight on May 29 without any hiccups. Now that we're settled into the Bay area, we thought you'd like to know our new contact information:

Gaansari
San Francisco, CA
Skype: gaansari
gary.gaansari@gmail.com

We may not be readily available, so have patience. Feel free to leave a voice or email, and we'll get back to you ASAP. PLEASE NOTE: we are not opening a retail location here in California. Bear with us as we retool and revamp the Gaansari line of frames, complete bikes, accessories and other products. We also have a few new business annoucements to share in the coming weeks.

~ Gary B.

No. 63, Vol. 5 - Looking Golden.

2006-05-23T15:03:00.001-05:00

We're driving from Ohio to San Francisco this weekend via a 26-foot Penske truck. The boy and I will be commandeering the big ol' truck, with my wife and daughter driving the dog and hamster in the Subaru wagon. We're hoping for a smooth 3-day adventure.

As the Gaansari story unfolds, more information will be given about the upcoming new product launch, the new business model, and the players involved. One of the new technologies we're using is Gizmo (kinda like Skype, but more versatile). Our new contact information will be available June 1.

If you'd like to receive updates on Gaansari and the other projects we're involved with, including Project Rwanda, send an email and we'll add you to our ever-growing Bike Evangelist newsletter list, nearing 2,000 strong worldwide. Keep an eye on this blog for further updates, fun things to read, and general silliness.

~ Gary B.

No. 62, Vol. 5 - Bob's Your Uncle: My First Taste of the U.K.

2006-05-16T07:25:00.001-05:00

I just visited the United Kingdom for the first time last week, and despite my straining to understand the various colloquialisms, I rather enjoyed myself. The people, the scenery, and food were charming, and the bike riding was spectacular; or as the locals say, the "mutt's nuts."

Manchester's coat-of-arms

My nine-hour flight from Atlanta was an overnighter, which sometimes makes the most sense when traveling internationally. I landed in Manchester, and after moving through customs at a tortoise-like pace, met up with Mr. Richards, who promptly whisked me away to Todmorden in his spiffy red Alfa Romeo on the M62. Sitting in the passenger seat on the left side was different, but I got used to it after a few days.

MR's spiffy red Alfa Romeo steering (on the rightside, of course)

Todmorden

Todmorden is a charming hamlet, surrounded by hills and dales I'd only seen in picture books. Mr. Richards and I spent the day getting to know each other, talking bikes, and indoctrinating me into the UK bicycle scene. His world is lovely, and I rather enjoyed getting to know his children as well.

Sir Toby of Todmorden

Gracie and Lu, queens of the Todmorden tarmac

Mr. Richards' unbridled enthusiasm was in overdrive last Thursday as we hopped on some mountain bikes, steered our way past the tripe factory(!), along the canal, across some cobbled roads and alleyways, and up to Mr. Murray's place. M2 is MR's righthand computer guy and expert MTBer. Between fielding cellphone speaker phone calls from Ray at the warehouse in Doncaster, the boys and I snuck a few peeks at some very clever Mac vs. PC ads on Mr. Murray's new Apple iMac desktop computer. As a life-long PC user, I may switch teams down the road...

Next, it was on to the Singletrack Magazine World Headquarters to meet Chipps and his crew for a quick coffee and chat. I've known Chipps since 1999, and thought it only polite to visit when in Todmorden. We discussed Gaansari plans for the U.K., then pressed on back to MR's house to spend time with the kiddies, enjoy some of Mrs. Richards' world-famous gammon, make some headway in my relationship with Gracie, toddle around the shed and grounds with Lu and Toby, then head off on our epic offroad ride that evening with M2 up to and around Stoodley Pike, the national monument.

Thar be Stoodley Pike, me hearty.

The cowpaths, sheep and rocks made for an exciting (and somewhat nervous-making) offroad ride for me, especially coming off a transcontinental flight with little rest. We soldiered on, enjoyed each other's company, and spun our way back into town, where I stayed at the dapper Scaitcliffe Hall. Charming to the core.

The next morning M2 and I met for a coffee and a chat at the Bear Co-Op to discuss our new website plans. We both noticed the large number of older gentlemen scuttling about the roads on old English steel bikes in garish team kit. This gave rise to a healthy discussion about lugged steel bikes, something near and dear to our hearts at Gaansari.

We transferred our bodies down Water Street to the Tenth Muse Cafe for some veggie sausage and mozzarella panini, and after more website discussion, rode our bikes back to M2's place to meet MR, who promptly wisked me off in hs red Alfa to visit the Doncaster warehouse crew.

M2 and the rolling hills

Ray, Andy, and Mark were charming, and it was good to see the UK operations. MR showed me some new products, then after zipping once again through the plush green countryside, we landed in Sheffield, former top UK steel producer and hometown of several music industry icons, including Pulp, Def Leppard, Joe Cocker, The Longpigs and the free improvisers Derek Bailey and Tony Oxley. The 1998 Mercury Music Prize award winners Gomez are also connected to Sheffield, as some of the founding members went to Sheffield Hallam University together. The Arctic Monkeys, who have recently exploded onto the UK music scene with the fastest selling debut album of all time, are based in Sheffield.

Sheffield's coat of arms

We arrived at DL's place a bit early, so we chatted outside for awhile before DL returned from his daily road ride. His wife and young daughter also arrived a few minutes later, and after exchanging pleasantries, MR, DL and I walked down to the town centre for a bite to eat and to discuss business.

MR, Texas, and DL

For the next few days DL and I took his young daughter and dog Texas for some walkies, meeting some friends and getting acquainted. We're both turning 40 this month, so we share much in common. The weather turned sour in Sheffield on Saturday, but there's nothing like a good hilly road ride to cure the cold-weather blues. Our two-hour tour of the Peak District was nothing short of spectacular, despite the heavy rain halfway through the ride. My desperate thoughts of hot coffee and biscuits back at DL's house were realized once we needled our way through busy Sheffield traffic. The birthday cook-out at DL's friend Bill's place was especially fun - everyone's first whirlwind tour of England should be this accelerated!

Tour de Peak District

Sadly, all good things must come to an end. After a few hours of heavy product develop planning late Saturday evening, it was time for me to pack my things, catch a little pillow talk, and board my returning flight for Ohio Sunday morning. I was excited to get back to my family, and became especially excited about working with my new British friends.

Reports of our demise have been greatly exaggerated.

The lumberjack handshake has now been introduced on four continents by yours truly; will this madness never end?

Stay tuned for more...

~ Gary B.

No. 57, Vol. 5 - Tornado Tom!

2006-05-05T16:51:00.001-05:00

Belgium road racing pro Tom Boonen has caught the attention of the entire Boulanger famille, which has made for an exciting spring. My buddy Alan taped a few spring classics for us, and we've enjoyed Tommy T's infectious smile the past month or so. What's not to like about this guy? He's 25 years old, current world champion, Belgian, and oozes charisma and panache not seen in the Euro peloton in decades.

Tom pipping George to take Paris-Roubaix `05

Photo: Graham Watson

Tom taking world champion's gold in late`05
Photo: Graham Watson

Tom bustin' a move in Tour of Flanders `06

Photo: Graham Watson

Tom showing his trademark smile as he crosses the line in Tour of Flanders `06
Photo: Graham Watson

No. 60, Vol. 5 - May is National Bike and Birthday Month!

2006-05-04T12:36:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Jason, wherever you are.

I turned 40 on May 7, and my firstborn Samantha will become a teenager on May 25, the same day as my sister-in-law Kris celebrates a birthday. Her husband John, my younger brother by two years, celebrates his special day on May 18. The woman who towed me around Allouez, Wisconsin in the late 1960s, my sweet mother Marge, has a birthday May 26. My late grandmother's birthday was May 9, and it was especially fun when her birthday and Mother's Day coincided over the years.

It's also National Bicycle Month here in the USA, so make sure to prioritize some saddle time the next three weeks.

No. 59, Vol. 5 - Great Things On Our Horizon.

2006-04-28T17:07:00.001-05:00

Monsieur Boulanger

Ever have one of those days when things turn around 180 degrees without notice? I received an email from a dear friend in Europe, after he heard we planned to shelf the Gaansari brand back in late March. `Let's work together to bring Gaansari to the next level,' he added, and after three weeks of Skypes, Gizmos, emails and several landline phone calls, we're about ready to go public with our new-and-improved plan to keep the Gaansari brand alive and well.

Stay tuned for more information in this space, and thanks for your interest. We've enjoyed nearly 8,000 business transactions with Gaansari devotees, and we look forward to thousands more.

~ Gary B.

No. 58, Vol. 5 - Here We Go.

2006-04-05T07:36:00.001-05:00

Waiting for a taxi in Taipei, sporting the MUSA shirt.

As many have heard, Cycles Gaansari the bike shop is closing for good April 29, and Gaansari and Fisso the brands are being shelved for now. We don't view this as failure; rather, a wise decision to know when to gracefully bow out. The cost of doing business in a narrow niche is higher than people imagine. Those that do it well (Rivendell, Ritchey, Seven, Chris King, etc.) have had their share of bumps and bruises, but have found a way to carry on and maintain their high standards and positive cash flow.

We hold our heads high at Cycles Gaansari. We've done what we know best: provide expert service, offer finely detailed bicycles and goods, and keep our promises. The challenge was convincing people to buy our products without pandering to people's false desires for a product that can make them faster or improve their lives. Of course bicycling can improve one's health, but the rest of the equation is up to the individual, not some man-made product.

We've been humbled by the volume of cyclists who've vaulted a Gaansari to their wish list, but we've been frustrated by the lack of orders. We put some serious thought and time into developing a Gaansari dealer network. We've traveled all around the world to visit frame builders and component makers, in the hope of offering reliable products at more affordable prices, because that's what people were wanting. It was during this quest to bring our company to the next level that we "bumped" into other opportunities to use our talents and connections, and it made our decision to turn the lights out at Cycles Gaansari a hard but easy one.

Courtesy www.hampsten.com

First, folks should know that my background is journalism, marketing and public relations (I even have the degree to prove it, although I haven't found my diploma yet). As a curious fellow interested in all aspects of the bicycle industry, I cut my teeth at a bike shop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the early 1990s, only after catching the bike bug from my buddy Steve Smith in 1988 when I was finishing up college. Andy Hampsten had just won the 1988 Giro d'Italia, Team 7-Eleven was raging, and Greg LeMond was still recovering from his turkey hunting accident the year before. Bicycle Guide, VeloNews and Winning were the magazines of choice, and I devoured, and was inspired by, every word and photo. I'm indebted to Ted Costantino, Maynard Hershon, Keith Mills and a few other writers during that period for this education.

Courtesy Sheldon Brown

Then Bridgestone Cycles appeared on my radar. Grant Petersen and his merry group of devoted aficionados really grabbed my attention in the early 1990s with their eclectic catalogs and bike models. I was a contributing writer for Bicycle Dealer Showcase by 1993, and when I heard of Bridgestone's closing in late 1994, I contacted Grant for an interview to discuss his next career move, Rivendell Bicycle Works. We hit it off swimmingly, and a year later he asked me to oversee production of his new line at the Waterford factory in southeast Wisconsin. I learned everything about frame design, lugged steel manufacturing, and met the world's brightest people through my association with Grant, whom I consider my best mentor in the industry.

I maintained my media contacts throughout the 1990s, wrote some cool catalogs for companies, and when the internet appeared, started writing content. When Rivendell transitioned its frame production out West in late 1997, I freelanced for several magazines in the U.S. and Europe, which put me in touch with dozens of industry folks. This is where I gleaned the experience needed (in hindsight) to start Cycles Gaansari in 2002. My inquisitive journalistic mind always wants to learn everything about an individual or company, and the marketing and branding lessons learned has brought me to this point. I'm fortunate to have a vast collection of industry contacts, and my association with some really smart and successful folks has been an inspiration.
Cycles Gaansari closed its doors in Ohio onApril 29, I'm now working full-time on building my marketing/public relations/branding/web development consultancy based in northern California. Ritchey and Syncros are my main focus right now, with Project Rwanda evolving into a wonderful industry-wide effort with Tom Ritchey and several other wise, experienced and talented people. I also look forward to growing Servant Leaders Outreach with Tom.

Cycles Gaansari was made possible by the several thousand customers that supported us since 2002, the wonderful vendors that worked with us, the mentors that guided us (thanks Wayne, and Grant), and the employees that dedicated a few years of their careers to us (thanks Bryan Bell, Justin Kellermeier and Scott Henry). Hats off to Will Meister for bringing Gaansari to the U.K. The real heros of this endeavor have been the AN, the SA, and the RI of GAANSARI: my wife Jean and our children Samantha and Henri. Thanks for your sacrifices and hard work - I look forward to the next chapter in our lives together.

~ Gary B.

No. 57, Vol. 5 - Big Ol' Sale, Big Changes.

2006-03-28T10:49:00.001-05:00

As some folks have heard, Cycles Gaansari closed its Springboro, Ohio retail operation April 29, which meant a Great Big Gaansari Sale! The Gaansari brand is undergoing a makeover, and it will be several months before our relaunch. We're also moving from Ohio to San Francisco the end of May, so we have plenty to do. We only have a few items left, so get them while they last! Please note: only call to place an order, not to ask questions about the items listed below. The only way to order is to call 937-748-8862.

~ ~ ~

BIKES
`06 Fisso Trackie 54cm Black (the one tested by Fixed Gear Gallery) - was $1,610 NOW $1,200 (FREE S&H in lower 48). No substitutions. Here's a photo.

`06 Fisso Trackie 58cm Black (almost an exact replica as the one tested by Fixed Gear Gallery) - was $1,650 NOW $1,225 (FREE S&H in lower 48). No substitutions.

`06 Fisso Trackie 52cm Black (the first one, shown on the website) - was $1,610 NOW $1,200 (FREE S&H in lower 48). No substitutions. Here's a photo.

No. 56, Vol. 5 - Lessons From A True Old-Schooler.

2006-01-24T13:08:00.001-05:00

John Sinibaldi

1913 - 2006

John "The Legend" Sinibaldi, passed away in his sleep January 10 at 10:40 am. He was 92 years old, and had a short battle with lung cancer. Luckily he was not in any pain, and died peacefully with his family by his side.

John's legacy as a cyclist will not soon be forgotten, as few if any cyclists will ever achieve what he did: national champion 18 times; Olympian in 1932 and 1936; U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame inductee in 1997; national record holder. His cycling career spanned an amazing 77 years, all on it on top of the national amateur picture. He won his first national-level race in 1928; his last national championship was this year at the USA Cycling Masters National Road Championships. A conservative estimate puts his lifetime mileage at well over a half-million miles.

From VeloNews, CyclingNews and the St. Petersburg Floridian.

John Sinibaldi's secret to a long life:

1. Eat your vegetables.
2. Work in the garden.
3. Listen to classical music.
4. Walk barefoot whenever possible.
5. Avoid TV as much as you can.
6. Read the paper front to back every day.
7. Work the crossword puzzle.
8. Eat red meat sparingly.
9. Don't smoke.
10. Hug all the girls at every opportunity.
11. And ride your bike like crazy. :)

Godspeed, John...

No. 55, Vol. 5 - Dude, Whereja Get Those Fancy Threads?

2006-01-20T10:57:00.000-05:00

Are You Tragically Hip?

Choices, choices: to be unknowingly tragically hip like my brother Joel, or to try to be tragically hip in a nonchalant sort of way like most of us poseurs? The choice is up to you, brothers and sisters. We're just here to facilitate some conversation in the lifelong debate of looking good and how to get there. Check out some of our new and old stuff below, `cuz it's all good, and somebody somewhere's gonna like something, right? Limited supply. Some stuff is brand-spankin' new, other stuff is priced to move, move, move!!

Tops

Back

Front

Gaansari Vintage T - NEW
Olive Green with the Orv logo on the front, and our vintage poster image on back. S, M, L, XL. Made in Los Angeles by American Apparel. Just $19.

Gaansari Old School T - SS
Heather gray cotton. Hanes Heavyweight 50/50. Small and Medium only. Made in Mexico. Were $15, now just $10.

Gaansari Ride It Like You Stole It T
Raglan sleeve, soft cotton shirt. Soft enough to wear as pajamas. Medium, Large and XL only. Made in Los Angeles by American Apparel. Were $22, now just $12.

Gaansari Biker Chick T
Ringer t-shirt. Large only. Made in USA by someone other than American Apparel. Were $19, now just $9.

Gaansari Leisure Shirt
Soft cotton collared shirt with pocket, ideal for lounging around. S, M, L, XL in various colors (Lemon, Cream, Brown, Black, Asphalt, Pink). Made in Los Angeles by American Apparel. Were $29, now just $18.

Gaansari Team Merino Wool jersey
Classically-styled jersey that looks good, feels good, and wears well in all coniditions. Short sleeve only, ideal with Merino wool or cotton arm warmers (we have those too). S, M, L, XL. Made in Portland, Oregon from New Zealand Merino wool. Just $85.

Gaansari Cash Black Merino Wool T
S, M, L, XL. Made in Australia, mate.

Caps

Gaansari Cotton Cycling Caps
Black, Red or Blue with Gold lettering. Classically styled to look good while riding or donned Made in California. Just $10 each, or 3/$25.

Kucharik Merino Wool Trainer Cap
Reversible - black on one side, two-colored on other. Choose from Yellow, Red, Light Blue, Royal Blue, White, Orange, Burgundy and Gray. Made in California from New Zealand Merino wool. Just $32.

Spot Wool Beanie
Cookie Monster Blue. Made in New Zealand, mate. Just $25.

No. 54, Vol. 5 - Our 5th Year.

2006-01-10T11:48:00.000-05:00

Justilonica in Traverse City, MI

Pedro and a Potts MTB fork.

Pat Maguire's Gaansari Flyer.

Gary & Sal in May 2005.

Our Man Will Meister, head janitor at HubJub.

Stacked to the rafters (apologies to Dave Grohl).

Family night rides.

The new location - 305 S. Main Street in Springboro, OH

The original location - 1106 Brown Street in Dayton, Ohio from January 2003 to December 2004.

Sam preparing for the Springboro Freedom Festival.

Sam and Justin's rear flying down State Street.

Justin and Ryan.

Captain of the Guard - Gromit.

Cycles Gaansari has entered its fifth year in business. We've seen a lot these past few years, and sometimes the days are too short. Sometimes the days are too long, and a few pulls on a deep cup of black coffee usually makes everything better. That and listening to "Live At Stubbs" by Matisyahu.

Last year was interesting from many perspectives. First, we relocated the business to Springboro from downtown Dayton. Our first employee Bryan Bell transferred his employment to another local bike shop, while our first part-time employee Justin Kellermeier came on board full time. We opened our doors to the world on January 17, and introduced our new line of Gaansari bikes at the Seattle Bike Expo in February. Springboro is more of a rural community, so we lost most of the walk-in traffic had at our downtown Dayton location. Our out-of-state sales tripled, as did sales of Gaansari models.

Highlights from 2005:

Road riding with Steve Smith and Dave Schlabowske on our old stomping grounds in Milwaukee, WI in late June;
Exhibiting our bikes and stuff while making new friends at the 1st International Fixed Gear Gallery Symposium in August;
Night riding with S and H;
Saturday-morning fixie rides with Justin and Allan Bindemann;
Spending a long weekend in Point Reyes Station, CA with Steve Potts and his sons;
Competing in the Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival in Hayward, WI in mid September;
Making the rounds with Justin and Ryan at our annual bike industry trade show in late September;
Introducing the Fisso brand of bike messenger fixies and accessories to raise money and awareness for the Bicycle Messenger Emergency Fund in late September;
Crashing to the ground like a ton of bricks in downtown Dayton after Justin's alley cat race in October;
Racing cyclocross with Scott, Bryan and Justin in November;
Touring Rwanda by mountain bike with Tom Ritchey in December.
Working with Will Meister at HubJub to offer Gaansari products to the UK market.
Getting positive reviews for our Gaansari St. Clair in Dirt Rag magazine and the Gaansari Scorcher in Cycling Plus UK.

January for a bike company can be slow. Our mood ebbs and flows with the weather, and we try our best to snap back to reality and realize how fortunate we are to have this business (a bike ride, even a very short one, does wonders for the soul). Our wealth is based on friendships first and foremost, and while negative cashflow can be a challenge, our bank account of relationships is overflowing.

Thank you for an awesome 2005. Let's make it a spectacular 2006! Check us out when you can - we have several new-old-stock bikes for sale, as well as room in production for more Gaansari bikes and custom wheelsets.

~ Gary, Jean, Samantha, Henri, Justin and Gromit.

No. 53, Vol. 4 - Bits, Bytes and Bikes.

2005-11-17T10:19:00.000-05:00

Bicycling is typically enjoyed by devoted folks seeking a multitude of results: fellowship, better fitness, therapy, and possibly an escape from the cruel world as we know it in late 2005. Whatever your fancy, please consider choosing Cycles Gaansari for items to add to your Christmas Wish List, okay?

Gary & Jean Boulanger, riders/owners
Cycles Gaansari

~ ~ ~
Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace via Priority Mail or FedEx Ground. Just call 1-888-813-3355 or email us your wishlist, and we’ll take care of your cycling needs.

HOLIDAY GIFT ITEMS
Angel Ornament
Made of recycled bicycle parts; 3.25" wingspan. Just $12.

Cog Ornament
Whether your favorite bike enthusiast likes one speed or 30, this simple two-inch cog ornament will inspire them when they pass by the Christmas tree this season. Set of three, just $19.

Bicycle Key Chain set (3)
A simple, elegant gift for your favorite bike enthusiast, made of recycled bicycle chain. Set of 3, just $12.

Recycled Bike Parts Picture Frame
Handmade from recycled bicycle chain with an easel back/stand. Stands or hangs vertically or horizontally. Choose from 4" x 6" or 5" x 7", just $29 or $39.

Gaansari Cotton Old School Cycling Cap
As most lifestyle cyclers would admit, the much vaunted and highly respected cotton cycling cap is a must-have item anytime of the year. Fly the Gaansari colors! Gold "Gaansari" logos throughout. Black, Royal Blue or Carmine Red. Made by Pace in the USA. Just $10 each.

COFFEE
Gaansari Coffee
Looking for a Mi-T-Fine deep-roasted coffee? Gaansari has just the ticket, and it's roasted locally. Stop by the shop to try a fresh cup, or order from us, and we'll ship some of our delectable stuff ASAP! Choose from SkidMark deep roast or Degreaser decaf blend, full-bodied and rich, just like granny. Whole bean only. Available in 8oz bags. Roasted locally in West Chester, Ohio. Giddyup! $5.55 each.

Coffee Mugs
The best coffee must be savored, not sipped. The Gaansari “Old School” ceramic coffee mug holds 9 ounces of your favorite Gaansari blend. Diner-influenced engineering with panache. Almond. Just $8. NEW! Black enamel with our official fleur d’lis logo in Gaansari Gold. Just $8 as well.

FALL/WINTER WEARABLES

Justin, Gary and John, prior to suffering at the Nov. 13 John Bryan cyclocross race.

Gaansari Wool jersey
After a few years of sitting back and watching all the cool companies come out with Merino wool jerseys, we finally have our own. We base our buying decisions on the same criteria on all Gaansari products: availability, affordability, durability, and this one passed the test. Reddish orange, with black collar, panel and sleeves. "GAANSARI" is presented in flocked yellow letters. Made in USA of 100% Merino wool, with polyester collar and cuffs. Zippered rear pocket. Sizes: S, M, L, XL. Price: $85 shortsleeve (we're out of longsleeve until mid January - use your arm warmers, or choose from our selection below).

Kucharik Wool shorts
Not only old-school, still the best shorts available. Just $79. Call 937-748-8862 to order the jersey and shorts together, and save $10!

Lake Oven Mitts Winter Gloves
Actually, they’re called the MX Firepalm, but we think they look like oven mitts. For really cold commuting. Just $45.

Craft Wool Baselayer clothing
An inner layer of polyester filament yarns assist in wicking moisture away from the skin while a wool outer layer creates a thermal, itch-free surface. Internal air channels help keep warm air trapped close to the skin. Inner Polyester Filament, outer Merino Wool 70% Merino wool, internal Air Channel Structure, raglan shoulders, flat-lock stitching, and slight droptail. Top or bottom - just $65.

Craft Balaclava
Thin, close fitting, and makes a good base layer. Just $20.

Gaansari Merino Wool Socks
Keep your piggies toasty this fall/winter with a choice of low- or high-cuff Merino wool Gaansari socks. Made in USA. Just $12 or $14, respectively. Buy one, get second of equal value for ½ price (while supplies last).

SealSkinz
For really cold and/or wet weather, choose the SealSkinz socks, thin enough to use with your everyday cycling shoe, but technical enough for nasty weather. Made in USA. Just $35.

Gaansari Leisure Shirt
Inspired by a boss-looking shirt American Apparel’s owner Dov found in Chinatown. Handmade placket and form-fitting shoulders. Ideal for riding, posing, or both at once. Definitely stylish, very tragically hip like our other Gaansari wearables. Fits both men and women incredibly well. Organic cotton blend. Sweatshop free, and handmade in Los Angeles. Sports the Orv logo on the chestal area opposite the pocket. Colors: brown, black, asphalt, lemon, pink, crème. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL. Just $29. Buy one, get second of equal value for ½ price (while supplies last).

Salsa Super Roubaix Arm and Leg Warmers
Brushed fleece interior to wick moisture and feel soft and warm against your skin; arm warmers have rubber grippers at the biceps and reflective logos, leg warmers have rubber grippers at the thigh and a handy 8-inch zipper at the bottom. Black. Just $35 and $40 respectively.

Salsa Wool Arm Warmers
100% Merino wool with elastic wrist cuffs and an embroidered logo. Just $45.

Campagnolo Arm Warmers
Seamless, knit construction given a Teflon water-repellent treatment. Arm warmers from the Italian masters. Just $32.

Campagnolo Knee Warmers
Made from a Teflon Treated Microfiber; one size fita all. Just $25.

Kucharik Reversible Wool Caps
Sewn from premium, dual-ply Merino wool from New Zealand. Traditional cool-weather caps with short bills and tuck-away ears flaps. Made in California by Kucharik. Four-panel design reverses to all-black. Choose from Red, Yellow, White, Burgundy, Royal Blue, Light Blue, Gray, Black, or Orange. Just $32.

Ktena Merino Skins zipper top
Super soft prickle-free Australian Merino wool top, made of double-knitted interlock fabric. The ultimate cycling base layer or lounge wear in chilly weather. Wicks 27% more than synthetics, and doesn't stink. Metal 10" zipper. Black or white. Available in S, M, L, XL sizes (unisex). Long sleeve ($65).

COMPONENTS

Shimano Dynamo front hub/lightset
Light your way this winter with one of the most effective and affordable dynamo lighting systems on the market. Available as a lightset or built up as a wheel with your choice of 26-inch, 650B or 700c rims. Shimano DH-3D71 dynamo hub: $99; Shimano LP-R600 headlight: $65; call for wheel pricing. 32H.

Gaansari GoldenBoys
Classic high-flange hubs for your singlespeed/fixed gear road, MTB or cross bike. Available in 100mm front with 120, 130 or 135mm rear. Complete hubset only. Front: $135; rear: $150. 32H includes lockring.

Complete Wheelsets
We offer a bevy of strong, evenly-tensioned handbuilt wheelsets. Choose hubs from Phil Wood, Shimano, Gaansari, Campagnolo, and DT Swiss; rims from DT Swiss, Salsa, Torelli, and Alex. Call 937-748-8862 for complete wheel pricing if you don't see something you'd like.

Brake Levers
Cane Creek: choose reverse, top-mount cross, or aero road. Call or email for availability and pricing.

Brakes
Cane Creek: choose short or long-reach caliper and cantilevers; Shimano long-reach calipers and cantilevers. Call or email for availability and pricing.

Handlebars
Choose from Nitto: Moustache, North Road, Messenger, Promenade, Randonneur and Classic; On-One: Midge, Mungo and Mary. Call or email for availability and pricing.

Saddles
Brooks, of course! Call or email for availability and pricing.

Gaansari bike model news update:

Due to rising costs of the raw materials we use to build our framesets (steel tubing, paint. lugs, silver rod, etc.) and higher fuel costs, we've raised our prices slightly. We've also added a fillet-brazed version option to each lugged model, because some have asked, and, our fillet-brazed models (Whirlwind and Mudplugger) have been well received. You'll notice as well the S+S coupler option on all of our models. All particulars can be found on our website. Let us know if you have any questions!

- Gary

No. 52, Vol. 4 - Mudplugger, Part Deux.

2005-10-20T16:43:00.000-05:00

Here's the Gaansari Mudplugger FB, which stands for fillet brazed. The Mudplugger is our world-class cyclocross model, available in both lugged steel with handbuilt steel fork and fillet-brazed steel with carbon fork painted to match. The lugged version is for retro-folk ga-ga for lugs and flat fork crowns, while the fillet-brazed version is lighter and easier to clean after giving it a mud bath.

Spec as shown: Sugino XD 175mm cranks, FSA 43T chainring, FSA Ultimax 103mm bottom bracket, Panaracer Cross-Blaster 700x31c tires, Gaansari GoldenBoy hubset (135mm rear), Salsa Delgado rims, Shimano BR-550 cantilver brakes, Crank Bros. Candy pedals, gold King headset, Kalloy Guizo stem, On-One Midge bars, Cane Creek aero brake levers, SRAM PC-1 chain, Shimano 18T BMX freewheel, Gaansari Safety post, and San Marco Rolls saddle. Color: Stable Boy Orange with French Custard double-box pinstriping, like old Jack Taylors used to be. Priced as shown: @ $2,950. All frames made and painted with mud in mind in Ohio by Jack.

All dressed up and ready to go. Look out Ohio Valley Cyclocross series, here comes slow-poke Gary B.!

~ Gary

No. 51, Vol. 4 - New Direction, New Hours, New News

2005-10-14T10:26:00.000-05:00

The braintrust that is Cycles Gaansari had a strategic planning session all day Wednesday, October 12, to determine `Where are we going, and how do we get there?' Our brands, Gaansari and SKIDSTRONG, are growing in strength and the demands on our time to feed that growth has moved into the forefront of our business. That, and the fact that we need to focus on our strengths as well as acknowledge the current state of bike shop retail.

The result? We've decided to jettison some bike brands from the retail floor, re-allocate funds for more Gaansari branding and product development, shrink our retail store hours, expand our mail order business, offer mail order phone hours, shuffle personnel, and, in the astute words of Larry the Cable Guy, "git-r-done!"

We're also having a Great Big Sale to clear bike inventory: all remaining Jamis, Brompton, Co-Motion, Orbea, and DK models are marked down considerably. Sale applies to in-store sales only - call or stop by to see what's available. We'll honor our service commitment to all bikes models sold prior to this change, rest assured. Our retail floor anchor brand will continue to be Bianchi.

New Business Hours
Beginning Monday, October 17, our new Retail Store Hours are Mondays and Fridays only, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. EST, Saturdays 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST. Our new Mail Order Phone Hours are Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. EST.

Personnel Shuffle
Effective immediately, Justin Kellermeier is our new SKIDSTRONG brand manager, in addition to being the best skidder, trackstanding clown, and world-class wheelbuilder we know. He can be reached at nobrakes@skidstrong.com.

Whether you're a new customer, long-time supporter, or just a curious onlooker, we appreciate your interest in Cycles Gaansari and look forward to many years of two-wheeled fellowship. Thanks for supporting us.

~ Gary & Jean

No. 50, Vol. 4 - Mudplugging, Anyone?

2005-10-09T17:34:00.000-05:00

Cyclocross, in a nutshell, is like doing steeplechase on a bicycle. Steeplechase is a footrace of usually 3,000 meters over a closed track with hurdles and a water jump; cyclocross is a bicycle race of usually a mile over a mix of asphalt and dirt trails, with 40cm high barriers staggered around the course to add various degrees of difficulty. Ascents, descents and adverse cambers also add great theater for spectators.

Cyclocross bikes are pretty unique for a few reasons, namely the cross-hybridization of two disciplines: road and MTB. At a glance, a cyclocross bike looks like a road bike: drop handlebars, bar-end or integrated brake lever shifting, narrow 700c diameter wheels, svelte tubing and narrow saddle. But closer inspection turns up cantilever brakes and more tire clearance for wider tires and the mud that often plugs up the narrow knobbies, hence the term “mudplugging.” Many cyclocrossers use narrow, slick tires to train on country roads, then switch to 700x30c semi-slick knobby tires for racing.

We’ve decided to enter the fray with the Gaansari Mudplugger, inspired by countless hours discussing bicycle design and cyclocross dynamics with multiple national `cross champion Tim Rutledge, former pro racer and product designer for Redline Bicycles, now with Raleigh America (thanks for the correction, Reed). Just like the rest of the Gaansari line, expect to see a nice mix of old-school heritage with smart componentry options: handlebars from On-One, Nitto, Salsa and others; crankset options from Ritchey, Stronglight, TruVativ and others; tires from Panaracer and others. Frames made in Ohio by Jack. Color: Stable Boy (Fiskars scissors) Orange with French Custard painted head tube and seat panel (lugged version) or Stable Boy (Fiskars scissors) Orange with French Custard box pinstriping (fillet-brazed version).

Check it out!

~ Gary B.

No. 49, Vol. 4. - Knee Farts and Bureau Diving

2005-10-08T09:35:00.000-05:00

The Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival is an annual tradition for my friends the Brothers Smith, Tim and Steve, and I. The Fat 40, a 40-mile point-to-point race from Hayward, Wisconsin to Cable, is the gem of the weekend’s festivities. Since its inception 23 years ago, the race has grown in stature and its fame has spread. Greg LeMond rolled up to the line a month and a half after winning his third Tour de France in 1990 (and fresh off catching a world-record small-mouth bass in the area that very week), and promptly spanked my and 2,300 others behinds in a driving rain that sent virtually everyone on more of a muddy death march than a bike race. But the tradition of two-wheeled fellowship with the Brothers Smith began a few years prior.

Back in 1989, Steve and I shared a tiny upper flat in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, about a 30-minute drive from the Kettle Moraine State Forest, southern unit, where the John Muir Trail offered (at the time) a few miles of challenging but exhilarating singletrack. Steve was a diehard bicyclist, as well as the knucklehead responsible for getting me into bicycles in the summer of 1988. He would drive out to the Kettle and ride by himself (I didn’t own a mountain bike yet), coming home covered head to toe in loamy, Wisconsin mud, his Lycra-covered Giro ProLite helmet perched above his foggy Oakley Pilot glasses, slightly askew, with a muddy-tooth grin from ear to ear. He was stoked; I was nonplussed. I was just getting into road bikes, but was intrigued by the notion of beating the crap out of my body.

Fast forward to that fateful 1990 Chequamegon Fat 40; the mass start, the pageantry of bikes, the trails of northern Wisconsin! Nothing prepared me for the thrill (or the pain) of the race. More than five hours later, I crossed the finish line too limp to walk, pee, eat or even talk, but boy, I was hooked like a salmon swimming upstream. The camaraderie of the Brothers Smith had begun, and I became the catalyst for our return each year.

The annual ritual of doing the Fat 40 expanded once our mutual friend Bob “10 o’clock” Nelson came on board in the early `90s. Not only did Bob’s bureau diving at the Super 8 liven up the trip each year, but his shenanigans brought out the funnyman in Steve, one of the most adroit knee-fart makers I’ve ever met (or had the privilege of sharing a crowded Honda Civic with to and from Hayward, rancid flatulence notwithstanding). Matchmaker Steve also introduced Bob to his future wife Heidi during the spaghetti dinner in 1996.

Steve and Tim grew up in Morton, Illinois, just outside Peoria. Smitten with bikes at an early age, the Brothers Smith rode and raced BMX, graduated to road racing, then climbed aboard their Specialized Stumpjumpers by the late 1980s. As fate would have it, we all got into the bike industry at one point or another in the 1990s: Tim hooked up with SRAM in 1996; Steve with Hanson-Dodge, the ad agency for Trek, in 1995; myself with Allis Bike & Fitness in 1991.

Tim is now head engineer for SRAM, overseeing 100 pocket-protecting mad scientists all over the world. Steve stuck it out with the pressure cooker H-D through October 1998, and I’ve ebbed and flowed through several gigs with Rivendell, Waterford, Airborne, Schwinn/GT, then started Cycles Gaansari with my wife, Jean in 2003. The diploma I earned through the School of Hard Knocks with those companies, as well as learning about the bike industry vicariously through my days as a freelance journalist, enabled me to launch a bike company with enough legs to provide a decent living for my family and (hopefully) our employees for years to come.

So, after a seven-year hiatus from the Fat 40, I acquiesced to Steve’s incessant badgering and throw my name into the lottery (did I mention only 2,400 people are allowed entry into the weekend’s races each year, with 1,700 allowed for the Fat 40?) and accompanying the Brothers Smith to Hayward, just like old times. My bib number was 468 (I submitted my one-page “essay” in March), and the first issue was “which type of bike to ride.” A standard hardtail? Full suspension? Should I use 26-inch or 29er wheels? Singlespeed? Fully geared? Fixed? Straight, riser or drop bars? Man, it was seven years since I did the race, and I was prone to experimentation every time: cyclocross in `96, and front suspension just once, in `98. The course is pretty forgiving due to its wide-berth fire roads and non-technical singletrack, but the stutter bumps, sand, gravel and rocks can wear down even the most stalwart rider in no time. I mean, 40 miles off-road is still 40 miles in the saddle, right?

My choice for a triumphant return to the Fat 40? A singlespeed, fully rigid, steel, 29er with cyclocross dirt drop bars, geared 42 x 18, topped off with a Brooks Conquest sprung saddle as the only nod to suspension. I figured, “let’s show those high-tech racer boys how it’s really done.” I wore a brand new wool jersey emblazoned with GAANSARI in yellow, straight-out-of-the box Kucharik wool shorts, Crank Brothers Candy pedals, and Lake MTB shoes. Besides, I’ve never raced the Fat 40 to set any records, just to have fun and be a guinea pig. I did, however, post my personal best time of 3:44:29, an overall placing of 1,410 out of 1,700; not bad for not having ridden, let alone trained, off-road in 16 months. Tim also posted a personal best of 2:57:14, placing 625th overall, while Knee-Fart King Steve finished a blazing 2:33:22, placing 177th.

Curiously, I received more encouraging comments from fellow racers than years past: “Way to go singlespeed!” “Dude! Cyclocross!!” “Awesome 29er!” “I can’t believe you passed me on a singlespeed!” “Keep it up, old-school!” I owe more to the pioneers of this fine sport of off-road racing than they realize. Their influence, mentoring and inspiration through the years has been priceless: Scot Nicol (Ibis); Steve Potts and Charlie Cunningham (WTB); Ross Shafer (Salsa); Grant Petersen (Bridgestone & Rivendell); Tom Ritchey.

When my days get long and life seems to fly by with no respite from the overbearing weight of Being A Grown Up, I can always retreat to the trails and dream fondly of next year’s Fat 40, and smirk when thoughts of knee farts and bureau diving.

Gary Boulanger steers Cycles Gaansari with his wife Jean in Springboro, Ohio, just 10 minutes from the trailhead at Caesar’s Creek State Park, southwest Ohio’s answer to the Kettle Moraine.

No. 47, Vol. 4 - SKIDSTRONG Trackie lives!

2005-10-08T09:09:00.000-05:00

We may have set a new land-speed record for launching a new bicycle brand. In less than four weeks, from concept to reality, the SKIDSTRONG brand is live. As we've said on this blog before, proceeds from the sale of every SKIDSTRONG product go to the Bicycle Messenger Emergency Fund, a 501 (c)3 non-profit founded in 2001 and administered by Jean Vallery in Sarasota, Florida.

Fixed-gear fever is spreading throughout pop culture and the bicycle industry, and the real heroes, full-time bike messengers, need your help. Cycles Gaansari launched the SKIDSTRONG brand on September 15 to raise awareness and funding for the BMEF through the sale of SKIDSTRONG-branded fixed-gear framesets, complete bicycles, clothing and accessories (including R U SKIDSTRONG wristbands in brown, gold or pink), available exclusively here.

“The Bicycle Messenger Emergency Fund was created to help out bicycle messengers after they’ve been involved in a crash that knocks them out of work,” Mr. Vallery said. “This fund provides emergency cash for an injured bicycle messenger during the first 24 - 36 hours of pain from injuries.”

SKIDSTRONG framesets are made in Ohio. Riders can choose from frame and fork or complete bikes. SKIDSTRONG T-shirts, wristbands and chainstay stickers are available online. Call 937-748-8862 for more information or email us.

No. 48, Vol 4. - Wallace & Gromit

2005-10-07T16:46:00.000-05:00

My family and I have been Wallace & Gromit fans since my kid sister Andrea turned us on to the clever duo in the early 1990s, and what's not to like about W&G? The subtle humor, the decidely British-ness of it all has provided joy for Jean, the kids and I for quite some time.

We're more than excited to see the first full-length W&G feature film coming out today, "The Curse of the Were-Rabbit." Oddly, most films coming out of the Dreamworks factory are subpar, mediocre, or just plain bad, but Nick Park and his crew have been batting a thousand since signing up with Dreamworks for "Chicken Run" in 2000.

Here's a delightful interview with the ever-pleasant Nick Park, who seems quite pleased with the film. "Something wicked this way hops," indeed.

~ Gary

No. 46, Vol. 4 - 1975 BMW R90/6.

2005-09-23T13:41:00.000-05:00

I know, you're thinking `why is there a 1975 BMW R90/6 motorcycle on The Bike Evangelist page?' Well, the moto's mine, and I need to sell it for the same reason I bought it in June 2000: to rob Peter to pay Paul, as it were.

In June 2000 I sold two titanium bikes to raise funds to buy the motorcycle, to essentially scratch my "gotta-have-a-motorcycle-to-be-more-like-Steve-McQueen" itch. That, and Ohio's weather is more moderate than Wisconsin's, where I spent the first 33 years of my life.

Now, the property from which The Bike Evangelist is published and both Cycles Gaansari and SKIDSTRONG reside needs a privacy fence. The cost? About the price of my motorcycle. Being the giving, loving business partner and husband that I am, I offered to sell my precious BMW to pay for the privacy fence. Here's some information on the original spec.

I bought the R90/6 from the original owner in north Dayton with 43,000 original miles; it has a fairing and hard shell luggage. The longest journey was from Dayton to Trenton, Ontario and back for the BMWMOA gathering in July 2002. Odometer stopped working about two years ago, but I haven't driven it more than 300 miles since then. No leaks, no real issues, no rust. Most service records; all work done by BMW Tri-State in Cincinnati. New Bosch plugs, new BMW battery, newer Metzler tires, and a recent oil change by yours truly. Quite the do-it-yourselfer moto. Shaft drive and front disc brake.

Serious inquiries only. Price: $2,900. I also have some extra goodies to go along for an additional price. Let me know, and tell your moto buddies who just might be in the market. Gotta get this fence before winter sets in.

Gary B.

No. 45, Vol. 4 - Gaansari Wool Jersey

2005-09-14T14:05:00.000-05:00

GAANSARI Merino wool jersey

After a few years of sitting back and watching all the cool companies come out with Merino wool jerseys, we finally have our own. We base our buying decisions on the same criteria on all Gaansari products: availability, affordability, durability, and this one passed the test. Reddish orange, with black color, panel and sleeves. "GAANSARI" is presented in flocked yellow letters. Made in USA of 100% Merino wool, with polyester collar and cuffs. Zippered rear pocket. Sizes: S, M, L, XL. Price: $95 longsleeve; $85 shortsleeve. Call 937-748-8862 to order, or send us an email. We also have Merino wool Gaansari socks and cotton cycling caps to match.

No. 43.5, Vol. 4 - My Fat Tire 40 Secret Weapon

2005-09-09T18:46:00.000-05:00

Gaansari Whirlwind 29er
This will be my sixth (or seventh? can't recall) running of the Chequamegon Fat Tire Fest 40-mile race in Hayward, Wisconsin on Sept. 17. I've always ridden wacky bikes because that's what I like: Breezer Jet Stream with moustache bars; Salsa Ala Carte; Rivendell cyclocross, etc.

For 2005, though, I'm opting for my Gaansari Whirlwind 29er with gold Chris King 1-1/8" headset; On-One Midge bars; Cane Creek aero brake levers; Tektro cyclocross rear lever; Shimano A550 cantilever brakes; Primo SGT 175mm cranks; Brooks Conquest sprung saddle; Shimano 18T BMX single-speed freewheel with FSA single 42-tooth chainring up front; SRAM PC-1 chain; Crank Bros. Candy pedals; Gaansari GoldenBoy 100/135mm SS/fixed gear hubset laced with DT Swiss Champion spokes to Salsa Delgado 29er rims. I'm also running Ritchey 29er tires (29x2.1"). The conditions are fast and dry, perfect for a rigid Steve Potts-style rig. I'll post full results on Sept. 19-ish.

No. 43, Vol. 4 - Are You A Commited Bicyclist?

2005-09-09T18:35:00.000-05:00

Bicycle Envy, Or Just Plain Ignorance?

Gasoline prices have skyrocketed, which really shouldn't be a surprise to most Americans. The Big Three in Detroit, General Motors, Ford and Daimler-Chrysler, are scratching their heads over what to do next to stay afloat.

Meanwhile, the commited bicyclists of this country silently turn the pedals, somehow trying to tune out the white noise of the media sqawking about intervention from the government. People need to realize that habits are not formed over night, and most cities are designed for cars, not bikes, skateboards, pedestrians or even buses. If there's any pain being felt by Detroit's Big Three, they can thank their own lobbyists for the pressures they inflicted on the government these past 80 years. Additionally, the oil companies certainly relish the extra cash they have on hand, thanks to the past 10 years of record-breaking SUV sales (coincidentally, the highest margin products from Detroit).

To the commited bicyclist, I say `keep up the good work, and let's all hope your silent example of a healthy transportation alternative inspires others to follow.'

Are you a commited bicyclist?

~ ~ ~

Most everyone has ridden a bicycle one time or another. And despite the billions spent on automotive
advertising and marketing, more bicycles (about 16 million) than cars (about 15 million) are sold in this country each year. Americans depend on their automobiles because our cities have been designed for automobiles, and the Greater Dayton Area is no exception. But the level of ignorance concerning where bicycles belong is at an all-time high. Case in point.

Justin Kellermeier lives in North Dayton and chooses to ride his bicycle to work in Springboro. He is keenly aware of what the Ohio Revised Code says about bicycles: ride with traffic on the right side of the road, stay off sidewalks (lest ye be fined $100 in Dayton), and obey all traffic laws. Pretty simple, right?

Not quite.

Kellermeier has chosen to ride his bicycle versus pay for gasoline and the wear and tear on his vehicle. He rides on streets with wide shoulders, dresses in visible clothing, and obeys the rules of the road. But that hasn't been good enough for a handful of drivers that think Kellermeier doesn't belong on "their roads." He's been physically threatened four times in seven days, had a driver with his children in the car purposefully back into him and his bike, and as a whole, been treated like a third-class citizen, all, Kellermeier notes, because he has chosen a healthy and cost-saving alternative to driving his car to work.

Earlier this summer, while riding with friends through Moraine, Kellermeier et al were stopped near Dryden Road by a Moraine police officer and verbally abused because they were riding their bikes at night (with lights): "What's in that bag? Are you drunk? Why are you riding your bikes at this hour?" So, because these tax-paying, bicycle-riding adults were doing something fun, the Moraine policeman took liberty on a slow night to chastise and bait them?

Recently, after riding my bike to a men's meeting in Springboro, a church mate "humorously" told me he felt like knocking me off my bike with his side mirror! That's akin to me saying I feel like driving past Heatherwoode Golf Course and playing Joe Sniper with all the golf-cart driving enthusiasts! This isn't healthy, folks; it's ignorance at its worst.

There are many white- and blue-collar friends that choose to commute to their workplace by bicycle, and I applaud them. A bicycle commuter typically chooses to ride instead of drive for many reasons, not one of them to be treated so shabbily by fellow co-workers, tax-payers, or public servants. It's time folks around here understand that respect is a two-way street. We all pay for these roads, and we're all entitled to use them in a manner befitting all walks of life, even the "lowly" bicyclist. Bikes belong on the streets.

Hopefully, more Daytonians will choose the bicycle as an alternative means of transportation, knowing their choice will be respected.

Gary B.

======================

Durable Goods for the Good and Durable
Now that you're all fired up to get out and ride for the cause, here are some essential, er, essentials to get you ready for the mean streets of your city commute. To order, call 937-748-8862 or email us for more information.

LIGHTS
The best lights to see and be seen come from Cateye and Planet Bike. Our recommendations include:

Cateye HL-EL400 3LED headlight
Waterproof, adjustable, and highly visible. Includes batteries. Just $39.

Cateye LD1000 red tail light 10LED taillight
The red-blinky version of the EL400 headlight. Waterproof and highly visible. Includes batteries. Just $39.

Planet Bike BRT-3 helmet taillight
Attach it to your helmet with its self-leveling kit, or clamp it on the seastay or seatpost. Includes batteries. Just $15.

FENDERS
SKS/Esge and Planet Bike are the top sellers here.

SKS/Esge 700x35mm road fenders
Strong and lightweight thermoplastic with breakaway stay brackets on the front. Black or silver. Just $38/pair.

Planet Bike Freddy Fenders - 700x42mm
Similar to the SKS/Esge, just a bit more plain styled and slightly wider. Yellow. Just $35.

Planet Bike Flipper seatpost fender
Just clamp this around your seatpost for an instant, affordable rear fender. Just $15.

RACKS & BAGS
Need to take some of the load off your back? Bolt or clamp these on your bike to carry extra stuff on your commute.

Nitto Mark Rack
Versatile enough to go on the front or rear of your bike. Just $92.

Delta MegaRack
12.5" height ; 10mm tubing diameter. Platform measures 12 1/2" x 4 1/2". Ultra-strong tubular 6061 aluminum design. One size fits over 95% of all adult racks. Rubber grippers keep loads in place. Weighs only 430g. Carry up to 25lbs. Black. Just $35.

Jaand Grocery Store panniers
Like the name suggests. Removeable and durable panniers to carry groceries, books, etc. 1,294 cubic inches. Just $53/each.

ARM & LEG WARMERS
Mama always told me layering is the key to commuting comfort. Arm and leg warmers work best, especially when it's cold in the morning and warm on the way home at night.

Salsa SuperRoubaix arm warmers
Salsa Superoubaix arm warmers have rubber grippers at the biceps, reflective logos, and are fleece lined for better moisture wicking and comfort. Sizes: Med., Large, XL. Just $35.

Salsa SuperRoubaix leg warmers
Salsa Superoubaix leg warmers have reflective logos, rubber grippers at the thigh, and an ankle zipper. Sizes: Med., Large, XL. Just $40.

Salsa Merino Wool arm warmers
Salsa Wool Arm Warmers are 100% Merino wool with elastic wrist cuffs and an embroidered logo. Sizes: Small, Medium or Large. Just $46.

CLOTHING
Always strive to keep the moisture off your torso and keep you warm, when properly layered, of course. Shorts help eliminate friction and cushion your nether region.

Endura Munro jacket
Showerproof and windproof, with zippered and taped removeable sleeves. Orange or Dove Gray. Just $100.

Craft Longsleeve Base
layer thermal fabric made of worsted Merino wool, an itch free fabric. Sizes: Small, Medium, Large or XL. Just $65.

Craft Bottom Base Layer
Dual layer thermal fabric made of worsted Merino wool, an itch free fabric. Sizes: Small, Medium, Large or XL. Just $65.

Craft Balaclava
The Craft Balaclava is thin, close fitting, and makes a good base layer. Fits wonderfully under your helmet. Just $20.

Kucharik Wool shorts
TRADITIONAL 100% Merino wool shorts. Elastic waist, dDrawstring, Ultra suede pad and rear pocket. The finest 100% Merino washable wool, with less than 3% Shrinkage. Don’t be fooled by imitation wool. Sizes: Med., Large, XL. Black. Just $79/pr.

Endura CoolMax boxers
Perfect to wear under your cargo shorts, K-Mart khaki kut-offs, or whatever you find works best. Sizes: S, M, L, XL. Just $22.

Gaansari Merino Wool socks
We're huge believers in Merino wool, so it was just a matter of time before we did our own wool socks. Black with gold "Gaansari" logo on 4-inch cuff. S/M or L/XL. Made by Sock Guy. Just $12. Or, the same great sock, with ribbed 5-1/2" cuff. Just $14.

LOCKS
The most reliable, transportable and affordable lock is the MasterLock Python, nifty 3-Position lock that allows you to adjust the cable length without backslip. Velcro Tail Holder – keeps unused cable from slapping the bike or car roof. Ideal for use with roof or rear car racks. Interchangeable 10mm braided steel cable. Patented lock cylinder is extremely pick resistance. Standard cable length is 6 feet; choose 8- or 12-foot replacement cables. Just $30.

TIRES
Need to replace your old knobby MTB tires with something more roadworthy? Want to use chubbier tires on your 700c commuter? Schwalbe and Panaracer are the best for the job.

Schwalbe Marathon 26 x 1.35"
Built-in suspension which absorbs over 36% of vibrations at the handlebar Kevlar-MB belt puncture protection using a combination of natural rubber and Kevlar fibers. 55- 95 PSI. 490g. Just $32/ea.

Panaracer T-Serv 26 x 1.75" KV
Features Zero Slip Grip tread technology, a kevlar belt under the tread for flat protection and durability, and a kevlar bead for light weight. 95 - 110 PSI. 380g. Just $35/ea.

Panaracer Hi-Road 26 x 1.5"
Features a slick tread designed to channel water away from the tire. 40 - 85 PSI. 480g. Just $20/ea.

Panaracer T-Serv 700 x 25 or 28c
Features Zero Slip Grip tread technology, a kevlar belt under the tread for flat protection and durability, and a kevlar bead for light weight. 95 - 110 PSI. 380g. Just $35/ea.

Panaracer Rivendell Ruffy Tuffy 700 x 28c
Features Tornado casing with round profile and checkerboard tread (alternating smooth and diagonal tread squares). Kevlar belt flat protection. 90 - 120 PSI. 290g. Just $46/ea.

Schwalbe Stelvio 700 x 25 or 28c
Features Dual Compound Technology for durability and cornering adhesion. Puncture resistant tread. 85 - 115 PSI. 335 and 350g, respectively. Just $32/ea.

INNER TUBES
Choose from 26" and 700c, all sizes, Presta valve. Standard 35mm valve length just $5/each, 48mm valve $7 each.

HANDLEBARS/TAPE
Looking for a change of pace with your handlebars, tape or both? We have some of the most sought-after and hard-to-find bars on the planet.

On-One Midge bars
Based on the much-ballyhooed WTB Dirt Drop cyclocross bars, UK style. The Midge has a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and is 58cm wide with a 113-degree flare on the ends! Just $65.

On-One Mary bars
Say good-bye to wrist pain. Clever bar design for on and off-road use. Just $55.

On-One Mungo bars
Based on the much-ballyhooed Nitto Moustache bars, UK style. The Mungos have a 26.0mm clamp diameter, and are 53cm wide. Just$50.

Nitto TT/Messenger bars
Ideal for your Scorcher or old-bike fixie project - 26.0mm clamp diameter, heat-treated aluminum, and KAS team-era Sean Kelly approved. Just $45.

Nitto Moustache bars
Designed by Grant Petersen during his high-flyin' Bridgestone Cycle days, based on a widely popular design used during the Wright Brothers' era in the 1890s. Ideal for extra hand positions, climbing leverage, and the occasional need to get aero. Made by Nitto with simple elegance, wonderful compatibility, and heat-treated aluminum. Ours has a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and is 54cm wide. Just $65.

Nitto Scorcher bars
Probably the most Wright Brothers-worthy bars for the Scorcher or fixie project bike on the planet. The cromoly Scorcher bars have a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and are 56cm wide. Just $45.

Cloth tape
Most every color a good set of bars needs. Just $4/roll.

Velo Gel
Synthetic cork with thin gel backing ; becomes tacky when wet for better grip. Red, black, white or blue. Just $14/pair.

Velox bar plugs
How else you gonna plug up those Tressostar-cloth-taped bars? Black. Just $6/pair.

LUBRICANTS
Gotta keep your chain rolling smooth, no matter what the terrain or the number of gears on your bike.

TriFlow
Best for singlespeeds, fixed-gear, and 5, 6 or 7-speed chains. Teflon. 2oz. Just $4.

ProLink ProGold
Best for 8-, 9-, or 10-speed chains. Designed to shed dirt, mud, and abrasives, and reduce tacky build-up in all climates. 4oz. Just $7.50.TOOLSEvery good cyclist carries tools.

Hans Multi-Tool
The most popular-selling item in our shop. Folding Hex/Screwdriver Set (2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6mm hex key w/ 8mm adapter, flat & Phillips screwdriver). Just $10

Rivendell Burrito Wrap/Tool & Tube Tote
This is just a square of waterproof fabric. It's the best way to carry a tight, compact load. Just roll up a tube and some tools like a burrito, and strap it to your saddle rails with a toe strap (not included). If you get a flat, just spread it out like a placemat, and you'll be less likely to lose anything amid the road-side debris. Just $5.

BAGGAGE & SADDLES
All good stuff from Brooks, Carradice and Baggins, found right here.

HELMETS
We sell Louis Garneau's Rev and Oregon ($55 and $40, respectively). If you're not in the Dayton area, buy from your local bike shop, but never pay more than $55 for a good helmet.

Remember, the easiest way to order: call 937-748-8862 or email us for more information.

No. 42, Vol. 4 - Fixed Gear Symposium

2005-08-23T09:43:00.000-05:00

1st International Fixed Gear Symposium
By Gary J. Boulanger

The sky was blue, the grass was green, and the bicycles were fixed. Traverse City, Michigan, a small resort town on Lake Michigan, welcomed 90 or so committed fixed-gear aficianados to town August 12-14, for the 1st International Fixed Gear Symposium, hosted by Dennis Bean-Larson, facilitator of fixedgeargallery.com, and his lovely wife Katy. They chose the grounds of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, known locally as "the Commons," site of a former state mental hospital.

Folks were rolling in from all over the U.S. by Friday afternoon. The exciting aspect of the event was the instant comaraderie as people unpacked their bikes. It's fun to see our postings on Dennis's site, but it's especially neat to see the bike in person, as well as the person! Tracy from Denver was the first to greet our merry band of Gaansari helpers. She cruised by on her Boston Baked Bean Steamroller, exclaiming "the Scorchers have arrived!" Pro guitarist and kinda newby fixie freak Eric Ambel rode by. He was excited to meet some folks and turn the pedals. He was also in town to play an acoustic set Saturday night during the banquet. We registered for the weekend's events, grabbed our spokecards, and set up shop. We also had the privilege of meeting and getting to know Sean and Brian, two deaf fixed-geared dudes from Minnesota and Washington, D.C. Their enthusiasm was contagious, as we communicated back and forth with quick notes in Sean's stenopad. It's amazing how we literally spoke the same language because of our passion for bicycles.

In a few hours, Dennis unveiled his new Matt Chester titanium fixie, resplendent in its simplicity (and expertly assembled that very afternoon). We rolled out in waves of 15 or so for an evening ride through town. Friendships were made, stories told, and the two-wheeled fellowship was beginning. Dinner was scrumptious, the air was crisp, and we all called it a night.

Saturday morning begain with a glorious sunrise, as participants made their way back to The Commons for the morning ride schedule. Ace wheelbuilder and Gaansari tech extraordinaire Justin was having a little trouble keeping his bottom bracket tight, so we took a pass on the group ride. As Justin dialed in his new Scorcher, I rode with Jon, Jason and Lesley from Jonny Cycles, a new brand of exquisitely simple and clean bikes. We ate breakfast in town, got to know each other better, then made our way back to the Commons to set up our booths for the event. Jon and Jason are amazing skidders (Jon's second skid was an impressive 585 footer) and fine track standers as well. The tricky part of the skidding contest was: generating enough speed around the circular drive before laying the skid, in between several deep potholes and uneven patches of asphalt.

Our Man Justin took the track standing competition, outlasting all comers with 6 minutes, 14 seconds. Justin also won the bike building contest with a time of 5 minutes, 25 seconds.

Nearly everyone attended my presentation, "Wilbur and Orville Wright: The Original Scorchers - How the Wrights Inpsired Cycles Gaansari." I tried to pass on my accumulated knowledge of the Wright Brothers as bicyclists, bike builders, and humble aviation heroes. I hope someone gained some insight.

The fun continued throughout the day, and culminated with a festive banquet, replete with a raffle drawing for goodies from exhibitors and well-wishers. Some lucky folks (yours truly) went away with one of Dennis's Cog Mugs, thrown pottery from the man himself.

Exhibitors/Sponsors included: Peace Coffee; Cycles Gaansari; Brickwheels; Town & Country Real Estate; McLain Cycle; Velocity USA; Jonny Cycles; Matt Chester, and Garfield Auto Service Center, Traverse City, MI, all of whom were included on the really boss event T-shirt.

For those of you who may have missed it at the Symposium or weren't there, here is A Theory of Holonomic Scleronomous Gyrators, or The Virtues of Riding Fixed by James Bernard Lee, Portland, Oregon.

No. 41, Vol. 4 - Handbuilt Bicycles

2005-08-23T08:38:00.000-05:00

Jan Heine is a unique individual. He is a German bicyclist living in Seattle, and his hobby is publishing Vintage Bicycle Quarterly. I met Jan at a bicycle show in Seattle back in 1996, and appreciate his expertise and the effort he's made to elevate vintage and modern classic bicycles to a new level.

His new book, a gorgeous coffee table one titled "The Golden Age of Handbuilt Bicycles," chronicles with verbage and photos many of the most innovative bicycles ever produced between 1900 and now. Rich color and colorful content. To order from Cycles Gaansari, just call 1-888-813-3355. Price: $60 includes shipping to lower 48.

- Gary

No. 40, Vol. 4 - Fixed Gear Symposium!

2005-08-08T13:33:00.000-05:00

The whole Gaansari crew (myself, Jean, Samantha, Henri and Justin) will be in Traverse City, Michigan this weekend (Aug. 12-14) for the 1st International Fixed Gear Symposium, organized by the fine folks at Fixed Gear Gallery. We're exhibiting the 2005 Gaansari Scorchers and Whirlwind 29er fixies. It promises to be a fun event: we'll have organized rides, great food, and the opportunity to meet other fixed-gear freaks from all over the place. We'll post a full report next time.

In the meantime, check out what's cooking at Cycles Gaansari's Fixed Gear department:

Bikes - Scorcher; Whi rlwind 29er
Wheels
Componentry
Saddles & Baggage
Clothing

Later!

Gary B.

No. 39, Vol. 4 - "Can You Ride A Bike?"

2005-07-21T16:48:00.000-05:00

"Can you ride a bike?"

Famous words uttered by Sean Thornton (John Wayne) to his beloved Mary Kate Danaher (Maureen O'Hara) during their courtship and escape from their chaperone Michaleen Oge Flynn (Barry Fitzgerald) in one of my family's favorite movies, "The Quiet Man." He asks this question half way into the movie after watching her get everywhere in the Irish countryside around the fictional town of Inisfree - on a bicycle. They "borrow" Rev. Cyril 'Snuffy' Playfair's tandem to make their great escape to the country.

For those of you who've seen The Quiet Man, there's a certin sumptin about the Emerald Isle that sets me heart a'flutter. John Ford's 1952 classic not only features Ireland's beautiful and lush countryside, but we see Mary Kate tooling around town on her totally cool ladies bike with Carradice bag and Brooks saddle, then half the town follows on bikes as Sean literally drags Mary Kate to confront her brother Will about the dowery he stubbornly refused to give the newly married couple on their wedding day. What follows next is an 8-minute, all-out, Irish-style butt-kickin' that these two Clydesdales give each other before becoming buddies.

So, can you ride a bike?

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We've recently created a new page to offer a full menu of road and off-road singlespeed and fixed gear custom wheelsets featuring our Gaansari GoldenBoys hubs in 120 and 135mm rear spacing. Check it out and give us a call: 1-888-813-3355. This is a new addition to our existing Custom Wheels Service.

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Here's the Cycles Gaansari poster that wasn't meant to be. A shame, eh? Approved by Stephen Wright, great-grand-nephew of the Wright Brothers. The Hollywood agency in charge of the Wright Brother's likeness and licensing wanted a plane full of cash to make it happen.

Here's what we're currently developing. We hope to have postcards and posters available later this year.

Here are some other nifty images that seek to inspire:

Time to hop on my bike and ride.

Until next time...

Gary

No. 38, Vol. 4 - Bicyclettes Internationales

2005-06-24T10:35:00.000-05:00

As some folks know, U.S. bicycle industry annual sales hover around $5.5 billion. I was startled to read in yesterday's Wall Street Journal that the chicken industry does about $50 billion a year! That's a lot of frickin' chicken! I know several cyclists who love chicken, and just as many that do the vegetarian/vegan thing.

Conversely, there are many cyclists we're getting to know both here and abroad, and it's fun to learn about the wonderful exploits these folks have on two wheels. Eric O., a customer from New Mexico, just ordered a custom Gaansari Scorcher for an epic trip with PAC Tours to Peru this October. Eric tells me he'll experience firsthand what it's like to climb 16,000 feet on a fixed gear. We look forward to his pictures.

This posting isn't meant to boast or brag; folks in the bike biz know how frustrating it can be when the phones don't ring and no one seems to notice the work one does to get nice bikes under nice people. We're in our third year with Gaansari, and it's encouraging to see so many devout cyclists choose our brand over so many excellent choices in the market.

Some recent emails:

"I wanted to compliment you on such a beautiful website and what appears an equally beautiful product line. What nice looking bikes, wow! Someone on the i-BOB list mentioned Gaansari so I thought I'd check it out. Makes me want to get on a plane for Ohio to buy a new bike!!"
~Tom M., Palo Alto, CA

"Which model do I like best? That's tough. I toggled back and forth through the models and I think it'd have to be between the St. Clair and the Flyer, though I have to say, they're all absolutely superlative. I'm not a fixie kind of guy, but I love the aesthetic of the clean, simple look - and the Scorcher exemplifies that beautifully. Your sense of color is fantastic. The St. Clair in that copper and custard is just gorgeous.

"As I was going through them I called my girlfriend over to take a look. She's owned very successful graphic design businesses and has worked with some of Silicon Valley's biggest companies doing brochures, catalogs, stockholder bulletins, that kind of thing. She is very critical and has a very good sense of color. She thought your color selections were great - the bikes look elegant, classy and desireable. From her, this is high praise.

"Moreover, I like your company philosophy as well as the bike design, construction and look. I'm sure this is more than you want to know, but there you go."

~Tom M. (again), Palo Alto, CA

A good friend, Sal R., just picked up his Gaansari Whirlwind, and plans to take it to the Tour de France next week. This is Sal's sixth-and-a-half Tour, and he's excited to see the mountains of France once again, this time astride his new bike, which he's nicknamed JPII, after the late pope.

Spencer K. from Missouri recently ordered a Scorcher to use on brevets, and has toured all over the world. A recent email from Spencer:

"BTW, I have cyclo-toured with a lady from Dayton that now lives in London, England. The whole time I rode with her (Chile, Argentina, China, Vietnam, and Ireland) I heard that nobody makes frames like the English. I am blowing her mind by buying a frame from her hometown. I am sure the frame will blow her away! I can't wait to ride cross country with her husband next year on an American frame. The force is strong..."

Then there's Hap Harlow, an American Major stationed with his family at European Command in Stuttgart, Germany. Hap recently ordered the third Gaansari Mudplugger, and is quite the aviation buff:

"Speaking of bicycles, the Paris Air Show was tremendously inspiring! The show is co-located with the French Air and Space museum which includes a fantastic collection of first-generation airplanes--including a Wright Flyer B and many other--all magnificently restored. There are bicycle parts on every one of them! I took some photos with you guys in mind--hopefully they'll stimulate some creative bike-building! (I'll attach a few in a separate email and send a CD with more if you like)."

Another interesting customer, Mark N., an attorney from Columbus, Ohio, ordered two Gaansaris, a Van Cleve for himself, and a Scorcher for his wife Shannon:

"I am looking for a custom steel bike to commute to and from work. I usually take the long way to work which is about 25 mile and return trip is 5 miles. I ride a Redline Conquest Pro and was looking at the Gaansaris online. I do not race and strickly commute. Do you sell complete bikes? What would the price range be for a Van Cleve with ultegra componets, fenders and rear rack? Also, my wife is interested in a 56cm Scorcher. She would like a price on a black one with silver rims and fenders, mustache handlebars and front brake. She is just looking at the basic set up, nothing too fancy."

Enjoy your day, and enjoy the ride.

Gary B.

No. 37, Vol. 4. - The Copper and the Scorcher

2005-06-02T08:31:00.000-05:00

“He was a mounted copper,
Upon an iron steed,
And was laying for the scorcher,
Who rode at lawless speed;
When whizzing 'round the corner,
At a breakneck, lightning pace,
Appeared a reckless rider,
Whereupon the cop gave chase.
"I say there!" cried the bluecoat,
As he humped himself about,
"You're arrested for fast riding."
When the scorcher heard the shout.
He looked o'er his shoulder,
And he didn't do a thing.
But pedal all the harder,
And make the welkin ring.
"I like that," said the "finest,"
As through the thoroughfare.
He started for his victim;
And the crowd that gathered there.
Cheered the racer, jeered the copper,
And wagered ten to one,
On the scorcher as he sped along,
On that exciting run.
In and out among the horses,
And the wagons on the street,
They dodged about most artfully,
Doing many a dangerous feat;
But the bluecoat was outdistanced,
He set too slow a pace,
And his anger gave expression,
In the wrath upon his face.
At last grown weak and weary,
The copper swore he'd shoot,
And reached back for his pistol,
But the crowd cried, "Don't you brute!"
But he aimed it at the scorcher,
If he didn't, I'm a liar; "Bang!"
The scorcher tumbled,
For the cop had pierced his tire.”

~ Author unknown, circa 1897

Gary Boulanger, editor
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary
Phony: 937-748-8862

Cycles Gaansari Store Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10-6 p.m.; Saturday 11-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

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The 125 Most Influential People in American Cycling
The League of American Bicyclists is accepting nominations for the "125 Most Influential People in American Cycling" to celebrate its 125th anniversary. Racers, journalists, product designers, marketers, bike company owners, industry pioneers and event organizers are some of the folks to consider. To throw in your two cents, submit your nomination(s) today.
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Applicable Products to Ponder (and Purchase)
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 937-748-8862 or email , and we'll take care of your cycling needs.

SADDLES & BAGGAGE

Brooks Leather Saddles
Fine bicycles, by definition, can be used as tools, transportation or tra-la-la-ing through the thicket. A fine bicycle is not complete unless it's shod with a thoroughly designed and proven saddle, like those listed on our site from Brooks (the undisputed king of crafted leather saddles). Made in England.

Carradice Baggage
Every cyclist I know carries a fair amount of emotional baggage (myself included!), and most of our friends are also very practical cyclists, so they usual tote their necessities with handmade baggage from Carradice of England. We stock everything listed on our site, and reorder promptly.

Baggins Bags
Baggins Bags, a product line from Rivendell Bicycle Works, are made out of waxed cotton duck, a very water resistant fabric. Whenever you add zippers and seams to fabric, though, you give water potential entry points. THESE BAGS ARE NOT WATERPROOF. They work well in light rain or damp conditions, but if you ride in heavy rain, we suggest getting waterproof stuff sacks or plastic garbage bags to ensure that your gear stays dry. Made in the USA. At least one of your bikes needs a Baggins Bag.

BIKES

The Gaansari Scorcher is a fixed/singlespeed road bike inspired by the Orville Wright's passion for racing in the 1880s. The Gaansari Scorcher is designed to be ridden with chubby 700c tires, on fast urban commutes or club rides. Lovingly built in the USA, individual in design, and guaranteed to last a lifetime. To commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Wright Brother's historic first flight on December 17, 1903, a limited production of just 100 Gaansari Scorchers will be available for purchase.

Scorcher frame material: Columbus Zona heat-treated cromoly steel, silver-brazed using cast lugs and dropouts. Frame sizes are measured from center of bottom bracket to top of seat tube collar. All Scorcher steel forks are built with 1" threaded steers to fit the frame's 15mm extended head tubes and PCD fork crown. Single fender eyelet front and rear. Available as a frameset ($1,350) or complete bike (starting at $2,300). Blue Jean paint with French Custard painted head tube and seat panel. Custom colors available. Simple, understated Gaansari decals. Made in Ohio by Jack. Sizes: 50, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 and 64cm. Optional lugset choices: Fleur d'lys for non oversized tubing (add $100); Richard Sachs' OS Newvex lugset and fork crown (add $150). Media reviews: USA Today; 63xc.com: "How We Built The Gaansari Scorcher"; Bike Cafe; Cycling News.

NOTE: Because we've redesigned the Scorcher for 2005, there are two British Racing Green 2004 Gaansari Scorchers remaining in 54cm and 56cm sizes. These are TIG welded Reynolds 725 with 1-1/8" threadless steer. Price: $750. First come, first served. Email or call 937-748-8862.

Fixed Gear Catalog
Products and photos galore to compliment your fixed-gear project, or to provide inspiration on ways to spec your new Gaansari Scorcher.

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The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,275 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Springboro, OH. © 2005. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

No. 36, Vol. 4.

2005-05-27T14:04:00.000-05:00

Getting Costumed Up
Since the dawn of two-wheeled man, cyclists have taken a beating in more ways than most subcultures. A few years after bicycling caught on in the 1890s, the automobile comes along. No big deal, really. But unbeknownst to most people is the fact that the League of American Wheelmen lobbied for the government to pave roads for smoother bicycling, only to see Henry Ford lobby the government for highways and byways, eventually "creating a nation of flaccid TV watchers, lulled into complacency by car commercials," according to author Michael Burton.

It's no wonder most Americans have no interest in riding a bicycle for bicycling's sake. Folks see Lance Armstrong in a Nike or Subaru commercial and instantly assume one must get costumed up to ride a bike. The silliness continues with a photo I found of Gary Fisher and Olympic MTB medalist Paola Pezzo standing in full kit with inner city kids from Oakland during a Trips For Kids ride, who seem quite happy wearing everyday clothing to ride the trails. TFK is a wonderful organization, and this video proves it. Check out the huge smiles and regular clothing on the kids. Recently retired Italian sprinter Mario Cippolini is exempt from scorn, though, because Italians demand this eclectic dress. Who else would choose to get dressed like a big wad of bubblegum in a pink skin-suit marked with a pattern of silver, iridescent veins as a swan song in the 2005 Giro d'Italia? Only Mario.

Putting "costuming" into perspective, would you or your spouse need to wear a chef's hat, apron and kitchen-specific Birkenstocks to make dinner every evening? How about wearing a head and neck restraint every time you got behind the wheel of your minivan, like those mandated during NASCAR races since the death of Dale Sr.? Seems silly, doesn't it?

Solution? Own at least one bike that you can hop on with street shoes or sandals, a billowing cotton shirt and cargo shorts or jeans. Make sure it sports fenders and a basket, to make it truly useful. Or for kicks, go for a 15-mile ride in regular street clothes on your zippiest-looking road or mountain bike, just once this month. I dare you. No, I double-dog dare you. For more on this topic, read "How To Ride A Bike Forever."

Happy birthday this week to Sam (12th on the 25th), and Margie (61 on the 26th), two of the coolest biker chicks I know.

Gary Boulanger, editor
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary

Eddy Merckx: Best Pro Cyclist Ever

2005-05-24T08:48:00.000-05:00

The Gaansari Crew is adamant about bicycling, but as any visitor to our humble establishment quickly discovers, we're not racerboy posers. We do not subscribe to wearing what friends call "banana smuggling" outfits, nor do we use heart rate monitors or other techno-gadgets when we ride. Our bicycles are based on proven designs from the 1970s, `80s and early `90s, and we don't see the need to chase vain modern technology to get our kicks on two wheels. And no, we're not card-carrying members of the Lance Armstrong Fan Club.

We are, on the other hand, rabid fans of a certain former Belgian racer named Eddy Merckx. Eddy retired in 1978, after more than 500 international victories. He had a cool, Brian Ferry look about him, and was a total dominating force in the pro peloton, so much so that his peers refered to Merckx as the "Cannibal." What was Merckx's secret? He was paid to race, and race he did. Spring classics, every major tour, fall classics, world championships, cyclocross, indoor track racing. If there would've been 13 months in a year in the `60s and `70s, Merckx would have raced them all.

The best inspiration we've received from Merckx is undoubtedly his performance in three art-house style cycling documentaries from Jorgen Leth, "La Course En Tete (The Head of the Field),"A Sunday In Hell," and "Stars & Watercarriers." Considered one of the best cycling films ever made, "A Sunday in Hell" focuses on the 1976 Paris-Roubaix single-day bike race (where Merckx shows signs of greatness fading and does not win). "Stars & Watercarriers" cofers the 1973 Giro d'Italia, where Eddy's dominance is borderline chilling: he atttacks incessantly in the leader's pink jersey, gobbling up stage win after stage win. "La Course En Tete" shows the personal side of Merckx following his crushing (to him) defeat at the `74 world road championships.

But enough about our take on Eddy. For more insight on the suave Belgian, read these three interviews from cyclingnews.com, and let us know if you weren't inspired to ride:

An Audience With The King
Back In The Saddle
The One And Only

Justin Needs Help!

2005-05-06T16:22:00.000-05:00

Our man Justin, a multi-talented but exceedingly poor man, not only wrenches at Cycles Gaansari, he also plays guitar in two Dayton-based bands. He needs your help. The latest Wood & Steel newsletter arrived this week, and adorning the cover is the Taylor T5 electric guitar. Justin is a humble man, a loving man, a very giving man. A man not wont for much in this world. But he's thoroughly smitten with the Taylor T5, and he needs your help. Any bicycle/guitar aficionado out there willing to donate money to the "Let's-Get-Justin-A-Taylor-T5" Fund should contact us at 937-748-8862 or send a check to:

"Let's-Get-Justin-A-Taylor-T5" Fund
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, OH 45066

Thanks.

Gary Boulanger

No. 35, Vol. 4.

2005-05-05T09:27:00.000-05:00

May Is National Bike Month
There's a nicely framed sign hanging on the door frame of our shop. It reads:

"Cycles Gaansari exists to keep the community’s wheels turning. Your bicycling enjoyment is our responsibility.

We offer sound advice, dependable maintenance, reliable gear, and a unified voice to the local government concerning your rights as a tax-paying bicycler.

Bicycling, in our humble opinion, is God’s second greatest gift to man. Bicycles are not toys, they are human-powered vehicles, from which the automobile, motorcycle, and airplane were derived. Ford, Harley-Davidson and Boeing can thank the bicycle for igniting the transportation boom of the early 1900s.

Bicycles are for everyone, regardless of socio-economic status, age, and gender. We know more people with little money to their name who’ve chosen the bicycle as a tool versus a status symbol, and their lives are better for that choice.

Ride always. Ride to work. Ride to the grocery store. Ride to school. Ride to the library. Ride to church. Ride to the coffee shop. Ride, ride, ride."

Make the most of National Bike Month; remind yourself of two-wheeled childhood memories. Enjoy this photo of the day.

Gary Boulanger, editor
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary
Phony: 937-748-8862

Cycles Gaansari Store Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10-6 p.m.; Saturday 11-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.
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Group Rides
Time to saddle up, partner! Gaansari Group Rides have begun! These are social road bike rides (average speed: 14 - 16 mph) on the rolling hills of Springboro and the outlying townships. Conversational pace. We roll at 6:30 p.m. sharp, so please arrive around 6 p.m. We also roll out at 8 a.m. sharp on Saturday mornings.
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BIG FILSON SALE!
A young former Ralph Lauren exec and his team of investors bought Filson a few months ago, and they plan to cheapen the brand. We love our Filson, but we really don't care for this hotshot new guy, so we're blowing out our entire inventory, which includes a lot more than what's listed below. So, while supplies last, all our in-stock Filson gear is 40% off. Call 937-748-8862 to place your order today. Ask for Gary.

BIG BIKE SALE!
For a limited time only, all in-stock bicycles are 15% off. Choose from our supply of bikes from Bianchi, Jamis, DK, Orbea, Co-Motion, Surly and a few 2003/04 Gaansaris. Stop by today; sale prices do not apply to any purchases made before May 5, 2005, nor to any made-to-order Gaansari models.
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Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 937-748-8862 or email info@gaansari.com, and we'll take care of your cycling needs.

BIKES

Brompton
T'ain't no better way to travel than with a Brompton foldable bike. The Brompton is a 16-inch wheeled bike which rides well, is safe, and yet folds easily into a very compact and portable package: other folding bikes have their own character and purpose, but none we feel matches the Brompton's convenience or gives you the same freedom and independence. Three- and six-speed models available. Pricing: US$658 - $1,087. Made in England.

Gaansari St. Clair
Orville and Wilbur Wright made premium bicycles in Dayton, Ohio before developing the first successful aeroplane. Their second bicycle, the Wright St. Clair, was developed in 1897 as an "affordable" alternative to the pricier Wright Van Cleve. The 2005 Gaansari St. Clair is a country bike (see Riv Reader No. 35, page 34) designed around smaller (26-inch and 650B) wheels for versatility and strength: 26x1.35" or 650Bx30mm slick tires for road use, or 26x1.75" knobbies for heavy-duty off-road riding. A true touring/adventure/expedition/urban commuter bike inspired by the 1993 Bridgestone XO-1, the Gaansari St. Clair is built in Ohio with heat-treated, double-butted cromoly steel, joined together with silver-brazing, using select lugs, fork tips, and dropouts. Pricing: US$1,350 frame/fork; complete bikes start at US$2,700. Made in Ohio by Jack.

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The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,250 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Springboro, OH. © 2005. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

No. 34, Vol. 4

2005-04-14T19:18:00.000-05:00

Freedom & Independence
In 1970, when I was barely 4 years old, 66% of school kids walked or rode bikes to school. It’s 2005, I’m not quite 39 years old, and a paltry 13% of today’s schools kids walk, scooter, skateboard or ride bikes to school, according to a federal study. The reasons, according to an article in today’s Wall Street Journal, “Bicycles For The Toddler Set,” are fear of abductions and traffic congestion.

Nonsense.

Grown-ups, not children, appear to be making some very shortsighted transportation decisions these days. I know so many people that live vicariously through their "rugged" clothing and offroad vehicles without doing anything rugged or offroad, for that matter. To me, bicycling brings people back to simpler times, when kids would whip down to the drug store to buy a milkshake and buy a Charleston Chew. These days, kids never ask to be overbooked in so many activities, which turns parents into taxi services. Parents: let your kids enjoy their childhood. Let them run around barefoot in the summer time; let them ride their bikes down to the creek and catch frogs; let them play baseball with a wooden bat and a tennis ball in the grass lot down the street. And for heaven's sake, spend some time with them! Enjoy bike rides to the ice cream stand, or better yet, plan a weekly ride to the playground and enjoy playing as much as they do. Spring has arrived, summer's right around the corner, and it's time to rejoice in the splendor of green grass and blue skies.

Gary Boulanger, editor
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary

Phony: 937-748-8862

Cycles Gaansari Store Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10-6 p.m.; Saturday 11-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

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Group Rides
Time to saddle up, partner! Gaansari Group Rides have begun! These will be moderately fast road bike rides (18 mph – 28 mph) on the rolling hills of Springboro and the outlying townships. Conversational pace. We roll at 6:30 p.m. sharp, so please arrive around 6 p.m. We also roll out at 8 a.m. sharp on Saturday mornings.
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Media

· USA Today reporter Julie Schmit wrote a nice article about Clif Bar founder Gary Erickson recently.

· BusinessWeek reporter Stacy Perman wrote a nice article about Cycles Gaansari April 8.
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Testimonial?
“Hi:

For first I’m so sorry for my English. I had look your URL (website – ed.) and I was impressed of your bike. I live in Vicenza, Italy, and I'm in love of Gaansari Scorcher bike - the design is really perfect. I would like know if is possible buy this bike from Italy. If is possible can you tell me the price with speditions (shipping – ed.) and how is better buy it. I hope you understand me; in the next mail I will find a translator..:-) Thanks so much for you answer.

Gianluca

P.S. IS ONE OF THE BEST BIKE I NEVER SEE.”
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Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 1-937-748-8862 or email info@gaansari.com, and we'll take care of your cycling needs.

BIKES
The Orbea Orca and Onix carbon road bike models are turning heads lately, thanks to recent articles in some major bicycling publications. Some positive features include lifetime warranty on the frame and fork, with no weight limit. We’re proud to be one of only two Ohio Orbea authorized dealers. Stop in the shop to check them out or be sized for your personal ride.

The Co-Motion Periscope family tandem was recently mentioned in the Wall Street Journal. After nearly one year riding one with our kids, we agree that it’s the best solution to fun family riding. Stop by the shop and see for yourself.

Gaansari Stable
Looking for an old fixed gear? Something new old stock? Visit the Gaansari Stable for really good deals. We've sold fine bikes to fine folks from Atlanta, Florida, Delaware and Seattle, to name a few.

TOOLS
Probably one of the coolest repair stands I've ever used now resides in our service area, courtesy of the fine pro mechanics from the former US Postal cycling team, who co-developed the Park PRS-20 Professional Fork Mount repair stand. Made in USA, just $185. Order one and see for yourself how handy it is.

GEAR
Wheels
Looking for a special set of wheels for a fixed/singlespeed road bike? How about a lightweight pair for your next brevet? Our ace wheelbuilder Justin builds strong, reliable wheels with your choice of hubs, rims and spokes from Phil Wood, DT-Swiss, Surly, Miche, Salsa, DK, Alex, Velocity, Chris King, SunRingle, Shimano, Suzue and Campagnolo, to name a few. Email or call 1-888-813-3355 about delivery and pricing. As Justin says, a good bike starts with the frame and wheels. "Everything else is pure jewelry."

Handlebars
Jones H-Bars
Variable position off-road titanium handlebar, something ideal for our Gaansari Whirlwind 29er. Curved front extensions provide better and more comfortable forward grip positions. This bar has a better "full aero tuck" position and a better "heal of the hand on the cross bar with fingers spread out and draped on the front extension" position compared to the straight extension model. The best bar for all day epics or 24 hour racing. Patent pending. Just $199.

On-One Mungo H'bars
Based on the much-ballyhooed Nitto Moustache bars, UK style. The Mungos have a 26.0mm clamp diameter, and are 53cm wide. Just $50. Again, we recommend the Tektro 221A road brake levers, just $16/pair.

The Much-Ballyhooed Nitto Moustache H’Bars
Designed by Grant Petersen during his high-flyin' Bridgestone Cycle days, based on a widely popular design used during the Wright Brothers' era in the 1890s. Ideal for extra hand positions, climbing leverage, and the occasional need to get aero. Made by Nitto with simple elegance, wonderful compatibility, and heat-treated aluminum. Ours has a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and is 54cm wide. Just $65.

On-One Midge H'bars
Based on the hugely popular WTB Dirt Drop cyclocross bars, UK style. The Midge has a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and is 58cm wide with a 113-degree flare on the ends! Just $65. Once again, we recommend the Tektro 221A road brake levers, just $16/pair. Shimano bar-end shifters would work swimmingly for `cross; call for availability and pricing (8 or 9-spd). Excellent bars for the upcoming Gaansari Mudplugger! The funny names "Mungo" and "Midge" come from a British children's TV show that ran in the late 1960s, early `70s.

Nitto Scorcher H'bars
Probably the most Wright Brothers-worthy bars for the Scorcher or fixie project bike on the planet. The cromoly Scorcher bars have a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and are 56cm wide. Just $45. We recommend the DiaCompe reverse brake levers, just $30/pair.
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Nifty Music
· At The Close Of Every Day is a three-man indie band from Amsterdam, kinda like a stripped down version of Coldplay. Give them a listen when you can.

· Acoustic folkie artist Ellis Paul comes highly recommended by U.S. Army Capt. T.G. Taylor, currently serving in Bagram, Afghanistan. Capt. Taylor also recommends recent stuff from Rufus Wainwright.
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Nifty Links
· Maketradefair.com gives a voice to the farmers, laborers, and factory workers who are being cheated by the blatantly unfair rules of world trade. And it gives a voice to you, the consumer, if you want to join them in the call to end exploitation and make trade fair.

· Jeff Jones is a solitary cycler and independent framebuilder eeking out a living out west, building beautiful titanium singlespeeds, 29ers, and fixed gears. Jeff is totally over-the-top with his stuff. Not only is he fabbing some very different and wicked titanium frames, he's also developed his patent-pending Jones H-Bars, something we've decided to offer on our Whirlwind 29er. Spendy, but very nice.

Have a Nifty Music or Movie Link you'd like to recommend? Send it to us for future consideration.
***************************************
The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,232 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Springboro, OH. © 2005. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

No. 33, Vol. 4

2005-03-25T14:16:00.000-05:00

Remember the days before mini vans and SUVs dotted the landscape, and kids rode their bikes to baseball and soccer practice? And paperboys were 16 years old or younger? And kids played football and baseball in the street? Man, I long for the old days. Folks today seem to be in such a big hurry to overbook their social and leisure calendars, and relive their childhood through their kids. Makes me glad to hop on my bike and slow the world down a bit. Remember that the next time you go for a ride, and be thankful for the ability to turn the pedals and enjoy some solitude on God’s green earth. Happy birthday to Jean Boulanger (26th)!

Gary Boulanger, editor
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary

Phony: 937-748-8862

Cycles Gaansari Store Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10-6 p.m.; Saturday 11-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.
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Group Rides
Time to saddle up, partner! Starting Tuesday, April 5, just a few days after Daylight Savings Time, Cycles Gaansari will have group rides at 6:30 p.m. These will be moderately fast road bike rides on the rolling hills of Springboro and the outlying townships. Conversational pace.
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Interviews
Jered Raflik is referred to as the DK product manager, although he really doesn’t care for titles much. He oversees anything to do with the DK name on it. He’s involved in a lot of other stuff too. Everyone at DK wears a lot of hats, because they’re a small company with less than 12 full time employees for both System Cycle and DK. Everyone thinks System Cycles/DK is a huge corporation with a ton of money; according to Raflik, it's not like that. We caught up with him at his Franklin office to talk shop recently.

My good buddy Dave Schlabowske was recently profiled in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. He's program manager for the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, a non-profit advocacy group, and he totally rocks. Davey-Boy and I have ridden our Rivendells from Milwaukee to Green Bay (142 miles in one day), our singlespeeds at the 2000 Singlespeed World Championships, our BMX bikes through downtown Milwaukee at night, and spun countless hours on our fixed-gear bikes. I miss him, and I miss riding with him. Dave was one of a handful of close friends I physically left behind in Milwaukee when my family moved to Dayton in August 1999, but it's a wonderful thing to see Dave thriving as a full-time bicycle advocate in a city he really loves. Ride it like you stole it, Dave!
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Cyclocross
Cyclocross, in a nutshell, is like doing steeplechase on a bicycle. Steeplechase is a footrace of usually 3,000 meters over a closed track with hurdles and a water jump; cyclocross is a bicycle race of usually a mile over a mix of asphalt and dirt trails, with 40cm high barriers staggered around the course to add various degrees of difficulty. Ascents, descents and adverse cambers also add great theater for spectators.

Cyclocross bikes are pretty unique for a few reasons, namely the cross-hybridization of two disciplines: road and MTB. At a glance, a cyclocross bike looks like a road bike: drop handlebars, bar-end or integrated brake lever shifting, narrow 700c diameter wheels, svelte tubing and narrow saddle. But closer inspection turns up cantilever brakes and more tire clearance for wider tires and the mud that often plugs up the narrow knobbies, hence the term “mudplugging.” Many cyclocrossers use narrow, slick tires to train on country roads, then switch to 700x30c semi-slick knobby tires for racing.

We’ve decided to enter the fray with the Gaansari Mudplugger, inspired by countless hours discussing bicycle design and cyclocross dynamics with multiple national `cross champion Tim Rutledge, former pro racer and product designer for Redline Bicycles, now with Raleigh American. Just like the rest of the Gaansari line, expect to see a nice mix of old-school heritage with smart componentry options. Made in Ohio. Color: Stable Boy Orange. Price: TBD. We’re also in the early stages of developing a Springboro-based cyclocross race series for autumn 2005.
_______________________
Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 1-937-748-8862 or email info@gaansari.com, and we'll take care of your cycling needs.

GEAR
On-One Mungo H'bars
Based on the much-ballyhooed Nitto Moustache bars, UK style. The Mungos have a 26.0mm clamp diameter, and are 53cm wide. Just $50. Again, we recommend the Tektro 221A road brake levers, just $16/pair.

On-One Midge H'bars
Based on the much-ballyhooed WTB Dirt Drop cyclocross bars, UK style. The Midge has a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and is 58cm wide with a 113-degree flare on the ends! Just $65. Once again, we recommend the Tektro 221A road brake levers, just $16/pair. Shimano bar-end shifters would work swimmingly for `cross; call for availability and pricing (8 or 9-spd). Excellent bars for the upcoming Gaansari Mudplugger! The funny names "Mungo" and "Midge" come from a British children's TV show that ran in the late 1960s, early `70s.

Nitto Scorcher H'bars
Probably the most Wright Brothers-worthy bars for the Scorcher or fixie project bike on the planet. The cromoly Scorcher bars have a 25.4mm clamp diameter, and are 56cm wide. Just $45. We recommend the DiaCompe reverse brake levers, just $30/pair.

Gaansari Cycling Cap – Blue
As most lifestyle cyclers would admit, the much vaunted and highly respected cotton cycling cap is a must-have item anytime of the year. Fly the Gaansari colors! Gold "Gaansari" logos throughout. Made by Pace in the USA. Also available in Red or Black. Just $10.

Gaansari Stable
Looking for an old fixed gear? Something new old stock? Visit the Gaansari Stable for really good deals. We've sold fine bikes to fine folks from Atlanta, Florida, Delaware and Seattle, to name a few.
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Nifty Movies
· As card-carrying members of the “Wallace & Gromit” fan club for nearly 10 years, we heartily recommend book marking this movie preview on your short list of Favorites – “Wallace & Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit” due in October 2005. It’s the first full-length feature movie from the crew that received a handful of Oscar awards for the W&G short films.

· I still remember seeing Star Wars as an 11-year-old in Green Bay, Wisconsin in 1977. Now my 11- and 10-year-old kids and I will see Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith this spring. My, how time flies.
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Nifty Links
· Blue Collar MTB wants to help riders who love the sport, but who don’t have the money to spend on high priced, average quality products. Their goal is to test products and give their website viewers valuable and honest feedback, so fellow riders know what products are worth their hard-earned money.

· Friend and customer Aldo Ross contributes vintage images to this really boss website.

· Matt Chester builds custom titanium single gear bicycle frames by hand, in 700c / 29" with traditional single speed (track ends + rim brakes) or fixed gear specific. Simple, the way it ought to be.

· Don Ferris builds bicycle frames, and is the foremost provider of excellent framebuilding expertise via his company, Anvil Bikeworks – built to hammer on!

· Have a Nifty Music or Movie Link you'd like to recommend? Send it to us for future consideration.
***************************************
The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,201 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Springboro, OH. © 2005. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

No. 32, Vol. 4

2005-03-03T10:57:00.000-05:00

In like a lion, out like a lamb, indeed. The month of March thinks its January in southwest Ohio, and area cyclists have been spotted standing at their windows with thousand-yard stares, helmet and cycling gloves in hand. Send some warmth our way, please!

Gary & Jean Boulanger, editors
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary
Phony: 937-748-8862

Cycles Gaansari Store Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10-6 p.m.; Saturday 11-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

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Buyer's Guide
Looks like the Gaansari brand is in good company, according to the latest VeloNews Buyer's Guide. We're listed under its "Handmade Alternative" section among several dozen Small Production Framebuilders. According to VeloNews, "If you're looking for your first bike since you were 10 years old, it's a sound idea to go with something off the rack. But if you're to the point of considering bikes in the $3,000-plus range, it might be time to consider a custom alternative. It's likely that when you buy your second or third bike, you can get a custom-tailored frame for about the same amount of cash as a machine-produced frame." Our thoughts exactly.
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Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 1-937-748-8862 or email info@gaansari.com, and we'll take care of your cycling needs.

NEW Products
The Gaansari St. Clair is now available with 650B wheels in all sizes 52cm and larger. Thanks to some gentle prodding by VBQ's publisher, Jan Heine, and a few recommendations by Steve Hampsten, we're moving into the 650B realm. We'll still offer a 26-inch wheeled version of all St. Clair sizes. Our Man Justin has already begun building wheels; alongside his workbench is a stack of Velocity Synergy 650B rims and tires from Panaracer, Michelin, Schwalbe, and Mitsuboshi. We've ordered a gaggle of dynamo hubs and lights, so give us a call for quotes and rear hub options!

The Gaansari Whirlwind is also getting noticed on various chatgroups; just when I want to throw in my two cents, a knight in shining armor explains our position. Thanks, our watchdog friends.

Ritchey WCS Blend Coffee
Tom is a good friend, a good bicyclist, and a voracious coffee drinker. So it was only fitting that he starts selling his own blend of coffee, roasted in Missouri. Tom is serious about his coffee, and his custom Sumatran, Arabic and Costa Rican blend, is strong and robust. It will not disappoint on those early morning rides. Just $11.95/lb. Order some from Cycles Gaansari today! A percentage of every sales goes to support Kids Across America.
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GEAR
Brompton L6
Our favorite travel bike - no tools, no muss, no fuss. Made right, made in England. Just $1,087 complete.

Carradice Brompton Travel Rucksack
Custom travel case for your new or old Brompton folder. Grab the handle, use the shoulder strap, or slip it on like a backpack. Handmade in England, of course. Just $170.

Gaansari Stable
Loking for an old fixed gear? Something new old stock? Visit the Gaansari Stable for really good deals. We've sold fine bikes tio fine folks from Atlanta, Florida, Delaware and Seattle, to name a few.
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EVENTS
Fat40
The Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival hosts the world's largest offroad point-to-point race September 16 - 18. I and 2,000 others got our butts shellacked by Greg LeMond in 1990 and 1991. Space is limited, they only accept 1,700 racers, and they draw via lottery. Give it your best shot!

Fixed Gear Symposium
The First Annual International Fixed Gear Symposium is slated for August 12 -14 in Traverse City, Michigan. Mono-coggers unite!

Singlespeed World Championships
Couldn't make it to Germany, Australia or England? The Singlespeed World's are in State College, Pennsylvania this August 20 - 21. Race if you dare!

Scallywags National Summit
Join various Scallywag chapters as they convene in Minneapolis April 27 - May 1. Check out their tall bikes!
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Nifty Books
· Don Miller is a fairly young guy who's written some insightful books about God, and the one I'm currently reading, "Blue Like Jazz," intrigues and challenges me.

· A new coffee table book is coming out this May from the folks at Vintage Bicycle Quarterly, called "The Golden Age of Handbuilt Bicycles." Anything from Jan Heine is top-notch, so place your orders right away.
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Nifty Movies
· Scifi is a favorite genre at our house, and anytime we find a movie with some comic book sprinkled in, we're all for it. Henri and I enjoyed seeing "The Rocketeer" again, an airborne Indiana Jones.

· No actor had the screen presence as sweet as Cary Grant, and "North By Northwest" was one of his best. I certainly helped to have Alfred Hitchcock directing.
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Nifty Music
· Thanks to friend and shop rat Pete P. for this neat link to one of the best guitarist I've seen in years; the kid's just 21 years old, he's from Germany, and his name is Joscho Stephan. Some call him the second coming of gypsy jazz great Django Reinhardt. I call him amazing. His Mutter probably calls him "Mein Kleines Joscho." Enjoy!
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Nifty Links
· Dale Brown's Classic Rendezvous is a joy to read, and a wonderful resource for vintage bike geeks like me.

· Sterling Gardner is a new friend, and he runs the Wright House Bed & Breakfast, built in 1815 by the founder of our little hamlet of Springboro, Jonathan Wright. Out-of-town visitors to Cycles Gaansari can book a room and rent a Brompton L6 when in town. Rentals available in May 2005.

· Have a Nifty Music or Movie Link you'd like to recommend? Send it to us for future consideration.

***************************************
The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,175 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Springboro, OH. © 2005. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

No. 31, Vol. 4.

2005-02-11T18:23:00.000-05:00

Winter. Here in the upper Midwest, Jack Frost has reared his ugly white head and appears to be sticking around, which leaves many cyclists scratching around for things to do. We’re not into the indoor cycling scene ourselves, so this is cabin-fever time in these here parts, and it gets hard to deal with some days. Nothing a good book, magazine, DVD or CD can’t offset, though. Dream of rolling asphalt and expansive singletrack; spring will be here soon enough!

Gary & Jean Boulanger, editors
The Bike Evangelist
305 S. Main St. - BARN
Springboro, Ohio USA
Website
Email
Diary
Phony: 937-748-8862

Cycles Gaansari Store Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10-6 p.m.; Saturday 11-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.

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EVENTS
Come visit Cycles Gaansari at the Seattle Bike Expo on Feb. 19-20. We’re going to unveil the new Whirlwind 29er, introduce our lugged, steel versions of the Van Cleve, St. Clair, Flyer and Scorcher models, and bring cool Gaansari gear to sell as well. If you’d like to stop by the booth to chat bikes, place a bike order or just hang out, visit us in booth #114.
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Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 1-888-813-3355 or email info@gaansari.com, and we’ll take care of your cycling needs.

NEW Products
Cycles Gaansari is proud to become an authorized dealer for:

Orbea – Made in Spain and ready to roll over hill and dale.
DK – the world’s best BMX company, based in Dayton, Ohio. Great dirt jumpers, too.

To learn more about these world-renowned brands, go to our Bike page, then stop by the shop. 2005 models arriving daily. To read about our updated, just-about-ready-to-roll-out-in-public 2005 Gaansari line, click on the links below. Remember, Cycles Gaansari is also an authorized Brooks saddles dealer; we also sell the complete line of Nitto handlebars and stems. We're also spec'ing plenty of Stronglight, DT Swiss, Phil Wood and Schwalbe on our `05 line:

NEW! Gaansari Whirlwind
Gaansari Scorcher
Gaansari Van Cleve
Gaansari St. Clair
Gaansari Flyer

New models from Jamis and Bianchi have also arrived. A sampling:

Jamis Exile hardtail – Reynolds 520 CroMo steel. Plenty more where that came from.
Bianchi Pista – hard-core fixie: $550 complete out of the box.
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GEAR
Bicycle Key Chain set (3)
A simple, elegant gift for your favorite bike enthusiast, made of recycled bicycle chain. Set of 3, just $12.

Recycled Bike Parts Picture Frame
Handmade from recycled bicycle chain with an easel back/stand. Stands or hangs vertically or horizontally. Choose from 4" x 6" or 5" x 7", just $29 or $39.

Gaansari Cotton Old School Cycling Cap
As most lifestyle cyclers would admit, the much vaunted and highly respected cotton cycling cap is a must-have item anytime of the year. Fly the Gaansari colors! Gold "Gaansari" logos throughout. Black or Carmine Red. Made by Pace in the USA. Sapphire Blue now available! Just $10 each.
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COFFEE
Gaansari Coffee - Full-bodied and rich, just like granny.
Looking for a Mi-T-Fine deep-roasted coffee? Gaansari has just the ticket, and it's roasted locally. Stop by the shop to try a fresh cup, or order from us, and we'll ship some of our delectable stuff ASAP! Choose from SkidMark or Degreaser decaf blend, full-bodied and rich, just like granny. Whole bean only. Available in 12oz bags. Roasted locally in West Chester, Ohio. Giddyup! $8 each.

Coffee Grinder
The connoisseur's chosen method of grinding: beans are introduced to the grinding chamber a few at a time, ensuring a consistent, even grind. La Pavoni burr grinders automatically dial-in the exact amount of coffee required, from 1 to 12 cups and adjust to espresso, coarse and drip settings. Not suitable for Turkish grinds or lever espresso machines. Made of sturdy ABS plastic, they feature 19 grind settings, a 1/4 lb capacity hopper and removable burrs for cleaning. 130-watt motor, 110 volts, UL listed. White or black, which doesn’t show the messy grounds as much. Just $49.

Coffee Mugs
The best coffee must be savored, not sipped. The Gaansari “Old School” ceramic coffee mug holds 9 ounces of your favorite Gaansari blend. Diner-influenced engineering with panache. Almond. Just $8. NEW! Black enamel with our official fleur d’lis logo in Gaansari Gold. Just $8.
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Nifty Books
· The Masked Rider was written in the 1996 by rock band drummer Neil Peart, a lifelong marathon runner and all-around active guy (ever see him play drums for Rush? Sheesh, the man’s a diesel engine!). It’s a diary from his bicycle journey through Africa.

· Ghostrider was also written by Peart, a sad chronicling of how he coped with the death of his teenage daughter and wife within 10 months in 1997. Grief-stricken, Mr. Peart withdrew from the life he knew, packed his BMW motorcycle and took to the road. This book reflects his experiences on what he calls "The Healing Road."

· Have a Nifty Book idea you’d like to recommend? Send it to us for future consideration.
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Nifty Movies
· Alec Guinness may be best known for his role as Ben Obi-Wan Kenobi in the first three Star Wars movies, but his versatility ran the gamut during a long and colorful acting career until his death in August 2000. A new favorite is “The Ladykillers,” with Sir Alec as Professor Marcus, Billy-Bob teeth and all.

· DK Bicycles from Dayton, Ohio, leads the way in all things BMX, and from time to time they develop an entertaining DVD chock full of stunts, jumps, and rider anecdotes. System is their latest, and it’s highly entertaining start to finish. Here’s a recent review.
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Nifty Links – Dayton-flavored
· Alien Workshop is a trend-setting skateboard company based in Dayton since 1990, and its expanded product line seems inline with these tragically-hip times. Fixed-gear customer Chad W. rides his Bianchi fixie to and from his job at AW daily, Fausto-Coppi style.

· Rokenrol is a newer skate company, also based in Dayton. They’ve been making some inroads lately, and sponsor our man Justin’s band.

· Voted "Internet Radio Station of the Year" at The Plug Awards in NYC Feb. 10: WOXY, based in Oxford, Ohio, just 25 minutes from the Gaansari World HQ. Give it a listen on your computer today, mod rockers.

· Have a Nifty Movie or Link you’d like to recommend? Send it to us for future consideration.

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The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,164 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Springboro, OH. © 2005. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

Merry Christmas, baby.

2004-12-20T14:12:00.000-05:00

Our family enjoys all genres of music and movies, and this time of year we're listening to everything from Bing Crosby to the Muppets. We hope you take time to enjoy family this year. Thanks for the memories we've made together at 1106 Brown Street. Here's to a fabulous 2005 for every cyclist - you're all bike evangelists. Merry Christmas.

Gary, Jean, Samantha & Henri

Cycles Gaansari
December 2004

"Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat! Please put a penny in the old man's hat!" ~ Miss Piggy

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Christmas Store Hours

Decemer 20 - 23 (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday): 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Please note – we will be closed Dec. 24, reopening at our new location on Monday, January 10. Cycles Gaansari, 305 S. Main Street - BARN, Springboro, OH 45099. 937-748-8862.

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Featured Bikes

Bianchi Castro Valley
A new model for 2005, the Castro Valley is the commuter's new best friend, fully equipped straight out of the box. Heat-treated cromoly steel frame and steel fork, double eyelets for rack and fenders. Spec'd with a 9-speed Shimano Tiagra drive train, powerful Shimano canti brakes, the Shimano Dynamo-driven headlight with 3 watt, 12 volt bulb, something unique in the US market. Rear rack mounts. Vittoria Randonneur tires with 3M reflective sidewall stripe make wheel reflectors unnecessary. Actual fender mounting much cleaner than the picture above. Sizes: 44, 49, 52, 55, 58, 61cm. Color: Vintage Green. Price: just $800.

Bianchi Bergamo

Light and zippy aluminum frame, spec'd with the unique SRAM DualDrive single-sided shifting system. An ingenious, self-energized internal 3-speed hub is paired with a 7-speed rear derailleur for easy right-handed shifting, which eliminates two chainrings and the front derailleur. Shifting is super light, smooth and intuitive and easy to downshift at the stop light. Rack and fenders make this one smart city ride. Sizes: 16, 18.5, 21, 23"; Ladies step-through 16.5". Color: Blue Jean. Price: just $640.

Looking for a good deal on new old stock or something used? Check out the Gaansari Stable.
Need a formidable travel bike? Nothing beats a Brompton, and customers across the U.S. are choosing Cycles Gaansari.
Seeking a fixed-gear road bike? The Gaansari Scorcher is the one you want!

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Events
3rd Annual Gaansari Polar Bear Ride - New Year's Day

Who: You!
What: The 3rd Annual Gaansari Polar Bear Ride.
When: January 1, 2005 @ 1 p.m.
Where: 305 S. Main Street, future Cycles Gaansari World HQ in Springboro (despite the fact that we won't close the sale or get the keys until Jan. 3rd).
How: Road bikes, rolling roads, brisk (conversational) pace. Invite a friend!
Distance: @ 30 miles

Directions: (from the north) Hwy 741 south to Springboro; three blocks south of Hwy 73. Hwy 741 is S. Main Street. OR, take I-75 to Hwy 73. Head East to Hwy 741. Turn right.
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Nifty Reading

Worth reading: Daniel Silva, the new Robert Ludlum.
Think you're an expert? Samantha Ettus provides some insight.

Nifty Movies

"The Grinch" - classic Jim Carrey (2000).
"It's A Wonderful Life" - classic Jimmy Stewart (1947).
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" - classic, er, Muppets (1992).

Nifty Sounds

Bing Crosby & David Bowie's "The Little Drummer Boy/Peace On Earth" duet (1977).
Sufjan Stevens, recommended by Luke C.

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The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,143 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Dayton, OH. © 2004. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.

No. 29, Vol. 3.

2004-12-10T16:12:00.000-05:00

By now, some folks have heard the news: we're moving our business to Springboro, Ohio, about 17 miles south of our current location. We close on the property January 3, 2005, and start moving in that day. For the complete story, click here. This comes on the heels of getting MAJOR exposure for the Gaansari Scorcher in the Nov. 19 USA Today, with a daily readership of 3.5 million.

If you or someone you know is interested in renting our space at 1106 Brown Street, contact Tom at 937-416-4933. Prime space for a boutique of any type - bookstore, coffee shop, what have you. Approximately 2,200 square feet. Great landlord. Our last day at 1106 Brown Street is Thursday, December 23. We’ll reopen in Springboro on Monday, January 10, 2005. Our new address will be 305 S. Main St. – BARN, Springboro, OH 45066. Our new phone number will be 937-748-8862.

Gary & Jean Boulanger, editors
The Bike Evangelist
1106 Brown Street
Dayton, Ohio USA
website
937-222-8862

Holiday Store Hours: Please note – we will be closed Dec. 24, reopening Monday, January 10. Happy December birthdays to: Missy W. (4th); Marcus R. (6th); Zack W. (9th); Eric Snyder (10th); Mark Atherton (13th) and lil' Baby Jesus (25th), the reason for the season.

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Products to Consider
All products, unless otherwise noted, can be shipped to your home or workplace for an additional shipping cost. Just call 1-888-813-3355 or email, and we’ll take care of your cycling needs.

NEW! The Gaansari Stable
Visit the Gaansari Stable, the place to find new, reconditioned, upgraded and refurbished complete bicycles and framesets. Our top-notch staff have lovingly prepped and readied everything listed below, so you can be assured of smooth, noise-free riding for many miles to come. Visit the stable; if you see something you like, call us toll-free 1-888-813-3355 or email with questions. We’ll update this page daily.

HOLIDAY GIFT ITEMS
Angel Ornament
Made of recycled bicycle parts; 3.25" wingspan. Just $12.

Cog Ornament
Whether your favorite bike enthusiast likes one speed or 30, this simple two-inch cog ornament will inspire them when they pass by the Christmas tree this season. Set of three, just $19.

Bicycle Key Chain set (3)
A simple, elegant gift for your favorite bike enthusiast, made of recycled bicycle chain. Set of 3, just $12.

Recycled Bike Parts Picture Frame
Handmade from recycled bicycle chain with an easel back/stand. Stands or hangs vertically or horizontally. Choose from 4" x 6" or 5" x 7", just $29 or $39.

Gaansari Bronze Fixed Gear Sculpture
We found this gem while sifting through a dusty, old footlocker in a thrift store in the SoHo District, J. Peterman style. Well, not really. Actually, we found this at a local wholesaler and bought their entire inventory. Ideal for the fixed-gear devotee. Looks great on the mantelpiece, desktop, or next to the stack of old Bridgestone and Rivendell catalogs on your nightstand. Made in India. Just $30.

Gaansari Cotton Old School Cycling Cap
As most lifestyle cyclers would admit, the much vaunted and highly respected cotton cycling cap is a must-have item anytime of the year. Fly the Gaansari colors! Gold "Gaansari" logos throughout. Black or Carmine Red. Made by Pace in the USA. Just $10 each. Royal Blue available after January 15, 2004.

COFFEE
Gaansari Coffee
Looking for a Mi-T-Fine deep-roasted coffee? Gaansari has just the ticket, and it's roasted locally. Stop by the shop to try a fresh cup, or order from us, and we'll ship some of our delectable stuff ASAP! Choose from SkidMark or Degreaser decaf blend, full-bodied and rich, just like granny. Whole bean only. Available in 12oz bags. Roasted locally in West Chester, Ohio. Giddyup! $8 each.

Coffee Grinder
The connoisseur's chosen method of grinding: beans are introduced to the grinding chamber a few at a time, ensuring a consistent, even grind. La Pavoni burr grinders automatically dial-in the exact amount of coffee required, from 1 to 12 cups and adjust to espresso, coarse and drip settings. Not suitable for Turkish grinds or lever espresso machines. Made of sturdy ABS plastic, they feature 19 grind settings, a 1/4 lb capacity hopper and removable burrs for cleaning. 130-watt motor, 110 volts, UL listed. White or black, which doesn’t show the messy grounds as much. Just $49.

Coffee Mugs
The best coffee must be savored, not sipped. The
Gaansari “Old School” ceramic coffee mug holds 9 ounces of your favorite Gaansari blend. Diner-influenced engineering with panache. Almond. Just $8.

NEW! Black enamel with our official fleur d’lis logo in Gaansari Gold. Just $8 as well.

FALL/WINTER WEARABLES
Lake Oven Mitts Winter Gloves
Actually, they’re called the MX Firepalm, but we think they look like oven mitts. For really cold commuting. Just $45.

Craft Wool Baselayer clothing
An inner layer of polyester filament yarns assist in wicking moisture away from the skin while a wool outer layer creates a thermal, itch-free surface. Internal air channels help keep warm air trapped close to the skin. Inner Polyester Filament, outer Merino Wool 70% Merino wool, internal Air Channel Structure, raglan shoulders, flat-lock stitching, and slight droptail. Top or bottom - just $65.

Gaansari Merino Wool Socks
Keep your piggies toasty this fall/winter with a choice of low- or high-cuff Merino wool Gaansari socks. Made in USA. Just $12 or $14, respectively. Buy one, get second of equal value for ½ price (while supplies last).

SealSkinz
For really cold and/or wet weather, choose the SealSkinz socks, thin enough to use with your everyday cycling shoe, but technical enough for nasty weather. Made in USA. Just $35.

Filson Merino Wool Socks
Merino wool 12-inch socks will bring your feet years of comfort, providing warmth even when wet, plus breathability to prevent overheating. Only comfortable, wickable 100% Merino wool touches your foot. 80% virgin Merino Wool/19% Nylon/1% Lycra® spandex. Style #952A. Made in USA. Just $23.

Gaansari Leisure Shirt
Inspired by a boss-looking shirt American Apparel’s owner Dov found in Chinatown. Handmade placket and form-fitting shoulders. Ideal for riding, posing, or both at once. Definitely stylish, very tragically hip like our other Gaansari wearables. Fits both men and women incredibly well. Organic cotton blend. Sweatshop free, and handmade in Los Angeles. Sports the Orv logo on the chestal area opposite the pocket. Colors: brown, black, asphalt, lemon, pink, crème. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL. Just $29. Buy one, get second of equal value for ½ price (while supplies last).

Salsa Super Roubaix Arm and Leg Warmers
Brushed fleece interior to wick moisture and feel soft and warm against your skin; arm warmers have rubber grippers at the biceps and reflective logos, leg warmers have rubber grippers at the thigh and a handy 8-inch zipper at the bottom. Black. Just $35 and $40 respectively.

Kucharik Reversible Wool Caps
Sewn from premium, dual-ply Merino wool from New Zealand. Traditional cool-weather caps with short bills and tuck-away ears flaps. Made in California by Kucharik. Four-panel design reverses to all-black. Choose from Red, Yellow, White, Burgundy, Royal Blue, Light Blue, Gray, Black, or Orange. Just $32.

Filson Merino Wool Scarf – Style #990
Merino yarn spun from extra-fine, extra-long fibers for superior smoothness, woven in a 3x3 twill for warmth without weight, then brushed for comfortable softness. 60" x 13", rolled fringe. 100% virgin Merino wool. Made in USA. Just $39.

Filson Fingerless Wool Gloves – Style #941
These exceptional gloves are knit of smooth Merino wool, whose extra-fine, extra long fibers provide all-day comfort and warmth even when wet (and especially for Jean’s chilly fingers when she’s working in the back office). Filson uses a special yarn that's completely wrapped in Merino wool, so only wool touches your skin. They add a touch of Lycra® in the cuff. Fingerless (past the first knuckle) for dexterity when handling small objects (like your keys) in the cold. Hand wash, air dry flat. Made in USA. Just $23.50.

WHEELSETS & BIKES
Gaansari Skidstrong™ Fixed Gear Wheelset
Not to be outdone by Lance, we’ve introducing the Gaansari Skidstrong™ fixed-gear wheelset, complete with Miche Primato hubs/Velocity Deep V 32H yellow rims in a stout three-cross spoke lacing. Products of Italy, Australia and Switzerland, yo. Made by Bryan, just $300/pair. For other wheels, go to our Wheel Listing.

NEW! Gaansari Van Cleve road bike
Due to strong customer demand, we’ve re-engineered our Gaansari Van Cleve road bike using a more comfortable geometry based on the Bridgestone RB-1. Construction is silver-brazed, lugged steel (builder’s choice of Columbus or Dedacciai tubing), flat fork crown with one-inch threaded steer, and room for fenders and fatter 700x28-32c tires. Braze-ons galore. Made in Ohio.

NEW! Gaansari Whirlwind 29er
The Wright Aeroplane Company merged with Glenn Curtiss' company, and the fruit of their labor produced the nine-cylinder radial engine for Charles Lindbergh's "Spirit of St. Louis" plane in 1927. They called it the Wright Whirlwind, which is the inspiration for our first Offroad model, the 29-inch wheeled Gaansari Whirlwind mountain bike. Our new location is just up the road from Caesar’s Creek State Park, offering southwest Ohio’s finest singletrack. A 29-inch-wheeled MTB is the way to go in these here parts, and steel is still real in our opinion. Look for pictures, pricing and spec after January 15, 2005.
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Nifty Books
· Have a Nifty Book idea you’d like to recommend? Email us.
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Nifty Links
· My mom gave me a stack of Smithsonian Magazines from 2000, and it's been a thrill reading them with my kids. Very informative without the pomp, like National Geographic.

· “Jungle” Jim Bonaminio is the owner, fearless leader and creative spark plug behind the Tri-state’s largest and most unique grocery store - Jungle Jim’s International Market. This highly self-motivated, notoriously creative entrepreneur built his market from a tiny roadside produce stand (in 1971) into the four-acre food lovers’ paradise it is today. This Fairfield, Ohio landmark is as popular a supermarket as it is a tourist attraction and stands as testament to Bonaminio's commitment to “making grocery shopping fun.” Visit Jungle Jim's International Market online or in the flesh.

· H-Dawg and I take guitar lessons at Hauer Music in downtown Dayton. Dave Hurley is our man. We're hoping to get Sammio started on drums after the new year.

· Have a Nifty Link or Movie you’d like to recommend? Email us.

***************************************
The Bike Evangelist is an electronic newsletter developed to keep cyclers informed on the latest goings-on at Cycles Gaansari, including new products, services, events, and anything else pertinent to the Greater Dayton cycling community and beyond. Nearly 1,133 strong! Published by Clutch Marketing Group LLC, Dayton, OH. © 2004. All Rights Reserved. If you like what you've read, tell others. If you don't, let us know and we can unsubscribe you, no problemo.