The simplest designs are usually the best. Creating a product with function in mind usually results in few changes over the years. Case in point is the Topeak Explorer Bike Rack. I’ve had mine over seven years now and you can still buy the same model to this day. Needless to say the Topeak Explorer Bike Rack is durable. Mine has endured many miles, moving vans, bike racks and a couple less than graceful wipe outs. The Topeak Explorer Bike Rack takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’. The only thing I would say to anyone mounting the Topeak Explorer [...]

If you are an avid trail rider, by now you’ve taken note of how people pass each other. A good trail will attract many different users; cyclists, in-line skaters, runners, walkers and those freaky three-wheeled stand-up things that move by swaying back and forth (although they look like fun, I’m still grappling with the idea of those weird things). First and foremost, the trails are for everyone not just the hardcore enthusiasts (just because someone spent a small fortune on gear doesn’t give them anymore right of way than the person taking a stroll). Also, occasional users must be respectful [...]

The number one cause of death in the United States of America is Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) someone in the US dies of a coronary event every 60 seconds. To put this into perspective; 39% of deaths are attributed to Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke. 23% die of cancer and 38% of deaths are attributed to everything else other than cancer and cardiovascular disease. There is a direct corollary between obesity and cardiovascular disease and stroke. In the US 60.5% of the population is over weight and 23.9% are obese. In [...]

We all have rituals that we go through everyday especially preceding or following an event. Considering spring is upon us I thought we should discuss getting your gear ready for the riding season. Even though we live in Florida and ride year round, spring is still our time for upkeep and maintenance. This year our three year old will be a big part of the spring ritual since he has his own bike now. We’ll start with a good cleaning. Remove the seats and saddlebags etc. and spray down with a bike cleaner (I prefer the foaming kind). Get out [...]

If you’re a male that is an avid cyclist you understand the need for bike shorts. Although, they do look rather silly (come on, lighten up, you know they do) you’ll never go back to boxers once you’ve ridden with bike shorts. Since this is a G Rated website I’ll put it this way; cycling shorts hold everything up and away, keep other things from chaffing and let your skin breathe. Perhaps you are an occasional rider and are not trying to break a land speed record so you don’t think you need biker shorts. Think again. The benefits outweigh [...]

As a Cycling Parent you have or will need a toddler trailer at some point. Bicycle trailers come in various sizes but for the most part have similar configuration; two wheels, screened cover with plastic weather guard, tow arm and clamp with safety strap. You should be fastidious about assembling and hooking up your trailer. Follow the manufacturer’s directions verbatim. I know most Dads will look at the rig and say “all you need to do is pin this thing and that do-hicky and tighten that knob there and…Bingo! We’re on the road”. Trust me, READ THE DIRECTIONS! No matter [...]

No matter if you are riding around the neighborhood or touring, there are basic essentials every Cycling Parent should keep in their saddlebag or backpack. I believe you can never be over prepared because Murphy’s Law will prevail. For fear of poking Karma in the eye, I will not name specific examples of items that I carry that have never been used. Just trust me, if you don’t carry the essentials, you’ll find yourself with that sinking feeling of “oh, I knew I should have packed the…” Essential Riding List: -Tool Kit -First Aid Kit -Tire Repair Kit -Water -Cell [...]

Some days you just want to ride. Your kid wants to play. At this moment you have to think; do I really want to butt heads on this or is there a way we can both get what we need? Let’s face it, you’re not going to have a good day if you force your little one into the trailer and roll away with shrill screams of disapproval ringing from the bike chariot. There is nothing wrong in wanting to get a good workout ride. In fact, we encourages the practice but must not be done at the expense of [...]

Well it’s winter. Got cabin fever yet? You want to ride? Go ahead! Winter cycling brings a tactical change to cycling, especially if you have little ones in tow. The main concern is if your kids are riding their own bike or will they be passengers. If your little guys are riding on their own, you can look at winter cycling as you would if they were going outside to build a snowman (or snow fort if you have more adventurous kids). Just remember not to impede their range of motion like Ralphie’s brother in a Christmas Story. You want [...]

When your kids want to get together with a friend we get on the phone with the child’s parent and try to set up a ‘play date’. This usually entails a car ride over to someone’s house or meeting at a playground where one or more of the parents watch the kids. Most of the time, we fathers end up standing around together talking guy stuff like sports, cars or work. This fraternal activity is usually peppered with the ubiquitous “hey, you guys play nice” or “if you jump off that monkey bar you’re gonna break your neck, better get [...]