Bike Skirt

Well, we're movin' on up

2009-07-13T16:12:00.003-05:00

Hello friends,
Bike Skirt now has a new home. www.bikeskirt.com. We are so excited to unveil our new look to everyone.

Head on over there to check it out. We think it looks incredible and are grateful to T. Scott Carlisle for his help with the site, logo AND the photos. We are lucky to have support from talented people. Thanks T!

*you will need to change your RSS feed to reflect the new site. OR you can cancel this one and subscribe to the new one. sorry for any inconvenience, but think you will agree that it is well worth it!

Bike Love!

DON'T break a leg

2009-07-10T11:18:00.001-05:00

Anna and I are participating in our first alleycat this weekend, the No Brakes 2 Year Anniversary.

Needless to say, we are nervous as hell.

Wish us luck. We will report back soon.

Also-it looks like the new and improved Bike Skirt will be debuting on Monday if all goes well. will keep you updated!!

Have a good weekend and share the bike love!

Workin' for the weekend

2009-07-08T16:40:00.003-05:00

So much bike fun this weekend!!

First we have the Atlanta crew, with a fun filled weekend! No Brakes is having their 2nd Anniversary Race & Party on Friday, July 10. Anna and I are for sure headed that way Friday night. (rumor: 50 cases of PBR donated!). Watch out ATL; Bike Skirt is about to invade!
On Saturday there's a pro velo race at the Dick Lane Velodrome, should be awesome to watch. Then on Sunday there's another velo race, this time for messengers and city bikers, with Cyclehawk's velocity. Winners get a free trip to Tokyo!

Pensacola Alley in Pensacola, Fl is also having a fun filled weekend, with their Blue Angels Alleycat. Looks like a whole lotta good times, and the beach too!

Finally, here in Birmingham we have a couple of things that you really should attend. If you haven't heard yet, our dear beloved Bottletree Cafe is in a financial pickle, and needs YOUR sweet lovin' to help them out! Saturday night they are having a free show to help business, so get yo booty over there and buy some drinks! Anna will be there rocking out (or something similar) with Andy's Tea Party.

Sunday night is the first of many events with The Sunday Night Skid! Every other Sunday our dear pals Matthew and John are going to be running the show with sprints and bike games. They are also doing some sort of point system, but you'll have to go to their site to get info on that.

Leave a comment if you'll be attending any of these events, or if you're looking to carpool!

A ride of epic proportions I would say!

2009-07-07T16:28:00.006-05:00

So I've been visiting around over the past week, first to my family over in Pensacola (thanks wle for the ride suggestions; I ended up riding with my parents on a rails to trails route, the Blackwater Heritage State Trail!) and now I've landed in the lovely little coastal town of Fairhope, Alabama. It happens to be a place that Elisa and I both share; her sister lives here and my husband's family lives here too! This morning I decided to go on a good long ride, and looked up a route with mapmyride.com. Here's the one I chose:

Fairhope Pier>Pelican Point>Marlow>Polo Fields>Fairhope
Find more Bike Rides in Fairhope, Alabama

The ride started off so beautifully; it was sprinkling on and off and humid as hell, but I grew up on the gulf coast (Ocean Springs, Mississippi to be exact) so I'm no stranger to the liquid sheen that appeared over my whole person after a few minutes. I got a fairly early start and hopped onto Scenic Highway 98. They don't call it scenic for nothing folks; beautiful million dollar homes situated perfectly on the bay, with intervals of water peeking through. As I got further along I could see more of the water, which was wonderfully choppy, and on the left side of the road it started to get nice and swampy. The highway ended at Weeks Bay, and I had a great view of the water, piers, and open air all around me. I rode around and took a few pictures (which I won't be able to upload until I get home) and then did a bit of back tracking to get to the turn off the bay. All the cars were very friendly, people were waving and giving me plenty of room when passing; it was heavenly really.

From there i was riding in a woodsy type area with nothing much going on - a few cows, an old guy on a bike that looked a tad too small for him, and crickets chirping their hearts out. I missed my turn somewhere but ended up where I needed to be, which was unfortunately a much busier highway. Thankfully there was enough of a shoulder so I wasn't in the road, but at one point I had to swerve around some large gravel from a driveway and got my first honk. I feel like this was understandable since I was right in front of the car when I swerved into the road, so I successfully fought back the urge to yell or give the driver the finger.

After passing over fish river I turned off of the highway onto a small street, and was greeted by two bulldogs! I squeaked and yelled an expletive while riding as hard as I could away from those beasts that were giving chase hard core. Thankfully I got away without harm! This road was shaded with wonderfully mossy live oaks, and I felt at home and at peace with the world.

Then it was time to get on county road 32 (you think a county road would be tame) and my ride went downhill real quick. 55 mph speed limit, no shoulder, big trucks hauling heavy equipment, and teeny bridges! I was hunkered down and trying my best not to have a breakdown. Then this sweet little fluff of a dog ran chasing after me, crossed the road a few feet from a car, started coming back (while I yelled "no little doggie stay where you are!") and got completely smashed by a huge truck flying by. I cried out, but was being closely followed by a cop and a few other cars so I rode on miserably holding back the tears. I was really depressed, people. Then a monsoon started; my shoes were immediately filled with water and I was almost blown off my bike, all while cars were passing by close and fast. I got off my bike and called my husband; "come get me!". I felt defeated, but thankfully wasn't too far from the end of the route. The road I was riding on was closed a few hundred feet up from where I stopped, so I would have freaked out at that point anyway - I am not at all familiar with the area and am sure to have gotten lost immediately.

It started off sooo beautifully...

Hello Beautiful

2009-07-06T21:51:00.005-05:00

Meet Freddie Mercury, my new ride. Ever since I lost Mick, then got Betty Paige (who was a mite too small) I have been dreaming of a new ride. Well, about a month-ish ago, I got one.

Isn't he a beauty? A Bottechia, with Shimano 600 components and a color scheme that stops traffic.

I love everything about this bike. It was hard to get used to the down tube shifting and the higher (lower...harder) gearing, but now I am in love. Freddie is a steel bike, so the vibrations in the road feel miles away. I am steady, safe, secure and fast as hell. Seriously folks, I am a stronger, faster rider now.

click on photos to enlarge for more bike-y beauty

(photos courtesy of T-Photographic. T. Scott needed a model to help with location and lighting scouting, so we packed up bags and took off on our bikes, looking for prime locations. It is amazing how much more you see riding beside a photographer that you would never, ever see just driving in a car.)

check out the awesome shadow situation in this one!

Oh, Betty Paige is happily being ridden by our good friend, Dan. He is taking good care of her and they are quite the pair. Only Dan could make pink bar tape look sexy on a guys bike.

one more note: be on the lookout for a new look here at Bike Skirt! Our friend (and awesome photographer) T.Scott is hard at work on a new layout/look/logo for our little blog. Yay Bike Skirt 2.0!

Skirting around

2009-07-03T22:59:00.006-05:00

Recently, Bikehugger asked me for a bit of advice dealing with a blog post here titled "I love cycling in a Summer Dress:how do you ride in a skirt and keep your poise". As the co-author of a blog called Bike Skirt, this was right up my alley!

I thought about it all day today as I pedaled around town in a skirt, running errands and meeting friends. Here is what I came up with...

How to ride in a Skirt : a tutorial

Riding in a skirt has its challenges, but is truly the way I prefer to ride year round. Summer you get a nice breeze, fall you can add tights if need be, but never get too hot. Winter is all about tights, over the knee socks and tall boots. Spring was made for riding in skirts. Going for a hard, epic ride in lycra…keep it classy and wear a little cotton skirt on top of the lycra. The skirt offers endless possibilities for riding fashion and function.

However, many women are scared to ride in a skirt. What if the wind blows wrong? What do you do when going fast downhill? What if your bike isn’t a step through (which, by the way, neither mine nor Anna’s are)? Here are the tips and tricks for maintaining your dignity whilst wearing the skirt and enjoying your ride.

1. Pick your skirt- pencil skirts are never a good idea on a bike with no step through. You are looking at it riding up and constantly pulling and tugging. A-lines, looser cotton skirts and mini skirts are best. Long skirts work if you have a skirt guard and chain guard (which I don’t). Dresses are also a great idea b/c you are not worrying about the back riding up too much and showing rear end cleavage (the worst kind of cleavage)

2. How to get on the bike-this is assuming you are riding a regular bike with no fancy step through. Step one: stand to the side of the bike. Step two: squeeze your knees together. Step three: lift your leg, keeping your knees as close together as you can. Standing on your tip toes is also a big help. You can give yourself extra protection by holding the center of the skirt down. Step four: at this point, you should be straddling the bike. In order to keep the skirt down it is best to put one foot up on a pedal. Tilt the bike a bit and you are good to go. Do this all in reverse to get off gracefully.

3. Riding in a skirt-ride as normal, keeping your legs close to the bike (something you should be doing anyway) and keeping one leg down while the other is up during coasting moments. For going downhill, I find that standing up keeps the wind from making you less than modest.

4. Leggings or shorts really help-I will wear a pair of leggings or cycling shorts if I am going a very long distance or am at all uncomfortable. This keeps you covered AND allows the fabric to slide up nicely as opposed to bunching up and riding up uncontrollably. Also-no thongs. This is just asking for trouble. Not to mention, unsanitary. Ick…

5. Have fun-sometimes you will flash. It is inevitable. When that happens, throw your head back and laugh. It really is quite funny! Also remember that with all the biking you are doing, your legs probably look amazing so flaunt them.

I hope this has helped. I am a firm believer in riding in skirts, both for the statement and the comfort. Ride on and feel the breeze in ways that the boys will never fully get to appreciate!!

Hello Pensacola, whatcha got?

2009-07-03T14:50:00.001-05:00

I'm spending 4th of July weekend with my parents in Pensacola, Florida and brought my bike along for the first time. Does anyone know of any good trails or places to ride around here? HELP!

Our first visitor!

2009-07-02T12:30:00.003-05:00

Tuesday Elisa and I were privileged to have our first blog visitor! Paul from pacificpedaling.com came through town on a cross country family trip, and we went for a nice morning ride together. After Paul set up his folding bike (a bike friday model) and I showed up late and groggy, we set off into morning traffic. We decided to take a route that went through some downtown Birmingham hotspots, including 5 points, UAB, and the business district. We even got to hop on our shortest bike lane (2 blocks long). We ended at our favorite coffee shop, Urban Standard. After some delicious coffee and baked goods, as well as great conversation, we had to head back home so Paul could get back to his family and onto their next adventure. Thanks for coming Paul, it was a pleasure meeting you!

Check out his blog chronicling their trip, The Epic Journey.

This is where we live

2009-07-01T18:01:00.008-05:00

Today, I give you my commute. From my workplace to home, I tried to take photos of each street. Mainly hills, but it is actually a lovely ride.

Unfortunately I moved this weekend, so I will have to change the first (or last) part of my ride. Still trying to get that worked out. Will post it once I am settled!

Enjoy my ride.

Critical Mass...what's right?

2009-06-29T22:22:00.003-05:00

Bici has taken over Critical Mass here in the magic city, and this past Friday we had a great turn out (for us that is). Things got off to a pretty good start, but pretty soon some differences in opinion developed regarding how the group should behave. It all started when a few of the riders were blocking cars so the group could ride through red lights, and at one light there happened to be a cop right there. The popo didn't do much beside a quick siren and a yell of "quit blocking traffic!". Some of the other riders got pretty upset at this point and started complaining about how the ride was being handled and how we could get "citations" for behaving badly and breaking laws.

So then we get into what might be called Critical Mass philosophy: one side thinks that Critical Mass should be a group that shows drivers that bikes and their riders are non-threatening. The other side thinks that we should to raise awareness by raising hell.

And I guess I'm in the middle: who cares?! lets just ride and certainly not tell each other what to do.

What's your take on the Critical Mass conundrum?

A case for clipless

2009-06-24T08:01:00.002-05:00

(can you tell I enjoy taking on the saddle shots?)

Well, I have done it. I have gone clipless. Sold out, gone roady...say what you will. I can take it. Go ahead.

ok, done?

Cycling friends (and the local bike shop guys) have extolled the virtues of clipless riding since the beginning. I eschewed the very idea, saying that I didn't want to be a 'clippy person', clicking into shops and being forced to wear special shoes. I was perfectly happy with my Power Strips. I loved them actually, as much as I loved being able to hop on my bike in heels, or Vans, or flip flops. I was simply not ready to commit to being a 'roadie' (a term I hate, like fixie kid, or commuter...can't we all just be cyclists? I digress...).

Then I did a really, really hard ride. My feet kept slipping from my Power Grips, they broke off midway through an uphill climb, the soles of my feet were aching from soft soles and I knew I could get more power if only I could pull on the uphill. Not to mention the hiking I had to do in soft soled Vans (still my favorite shoes for riding, btw). Power Grips are incredible on normal hills, but major climbing is a bit of a strain for them.

A week went by and I talked to my 'clippy' friends. I visited the bike shop. Most importantly, I found out that I could get reversible pedals! Not forced to wear only clipless shoes?! This is getting better. Wait, there are shoes that I can wear that don't click?! All for under $200. Things were looking up. I was still nervous and, honestly, a bit worried about what friends would think. We have always said that we want cycling to be more accessible and scoff at the idea of full spandex kits, choosing a bike for it's weight and spending all of our money on accessories.

I was at a crossroads. Do I go clipless and increase my speed and make my climb over the mountain easier, or do I hold tight to my 'urban riding' pride? For a flat city, there would be no question-no clipless. However, with a mountain to traverse and rolling hills the entire way, a little help would be nice.

In the end, efficiency won out (hey, I do have a degree in Economics). I bought the pedals and shoes, had a quick lesson at Homewood Cycles and was ready.

I love it. I was really kind of hoping to hate it. Nope. My average speed increased 3.5 mph and my knees feel better. My climb each day is still hard, but not as hard as it used to be. Between the heat and the mountain, my commute is a bitch. However, now it is my bitch.

Shoes: Bontrager Race Mountain Shoes $89.99
Pedals: Shimano PD-M545 $89.99

If you decide to take the plunge, I highly recommend these for beginners who don't want to fully commit. I can take off for the bars in heels, or clip in for a serious ride. Best of both worlds.

Oh, and I have only fallen twice. I consider that a success.

Are you clipless? What do you think of it?

This is where we live

2009-06-23T11:50:00.003-05:00

Birmingham has a plethora of amazing photographers, and Cary Norton is the best of the best. So for the next installment of this is where we live, I thought this photo of Cary's was perfect. This is most definitely where we live. ride. sleep. drink. eat. love. fight the good fight. be.

You can visit Cary at one of his many internet locales:

Huntsville Alleycat

2009-06-23T09:47:00.005-05:00

Put on by our friends over at TwoFiveFix. Go spend this hot weekend up there where it is (a bit) cooler. Should be a good time. If I wasn't going out of town, I would so be there.

View from the saddle on a balmy Friday

2009-06-19T20:14:00.005-05:00

Freddy Mercury chillin outside Rojo while I enjoy a beer and yumminess with friends

Scary from the saddle shot after leaving Rojo

Beautiful church directly in front of my little house. I love it.

On the side of the road shot

This is steeper than it looks. I have to climb this to get home, no matter which way I go!

Pulling up to the humble abode.

Wednesday Haiku

2009-06-17T08:01:00.000-05:00

An ode to Anna:

Anna, what a gal
totally girly, kicks ass
She's a true bikeskirt

Anna, you are awesome!

This is where we live

2009-06-16T21:33:00.003-05:00

Ok I am seriously slacking on documenting our Birmingham experience! I forgot last week (personal stress will be my excuse), and although tonight Elisa and I had a fabulous time riding and eating and drunking, a lapse in memory forced me to not bring my camera. Thus, the festivities were not documented. It was a good time though, that's fo sho.

So, anyway, I will post a photo of Birmingham. Admittedly, it's about five years old, but it looks exactly the same here. This is close to where Sunday Night Sprints happened; which was a lot of fixed gear fun for the whole family. Why don't we do that anymore??

Summer Lovin'

2009-06-15T23:03:00.003-05:00

Only June and it is already 100 degrees out when I leave work. Seriously folks, it is HOT. When I leave at 7am, we are talking about 80 degree...that is hot for the wee hours.

Because of this extreme heat and the knowledge that it is only going to get hotter as the summer goes on, I have compiled some tips and tidbits about trying to ride out the heat

1. Leave early-you don't want to be in a rush in this heat. Add in some panic and 80 degrees suddenly feels like 100, 100 feels like...well, you get it

2. Action Wipes-I don't have a shower at work. So I have to use these puppies each day when I get to the office. I arrive sweaty and gross, but a quick wipe down with a large Action wipe does wonders. I really don't think I (or my coworkers) could survive the summer without it.

3. Don't bother with make-up or getting cute till you get there-it is a waste of time to put on make-up and cute clothes only to sweat it off. however, you MUST put on sunscreen.

4. Dress the part-cotton is my enemy. It gets so hot and sticky that it feels disgusting when you get to your destination. I use Icebreaker Wool shirts and cotton skirts (with cycling shorts underneath) for my rides. Anything else gets hot and gross. Bring your work clothes in a bag or keep some in the office. Shoes and all. I carry mine, but also keep a spare pair of shoes, panties (I have forgotten these and going commando OR wearing cycling shorts all day is awkward), and a dress in a file cabinet just in case.

5. Hair care-I had to cut my hair short. It was the only way to combat helmet head. I have thin hair that luckily looks good short. If not, bring a blowdryer to work at the beginning of the season, because you will need it. I have a great stylist so my hair actually looks better with helmet head (unbelievable, but true!). Little tip: bike to your stylist so he or she can see what they are working with, helmet head wise. Best decision I made regarding summer riding hair. Oh, and dry shampoo is incredible.

6. My bag full of essentials: deodorant, Action Wipes, Dry Shampoo, light natural perfume, dry towel, make-up (primer, cheek stain and powder especially), hair creme.

Other stuff: clean socks for your ride home. I can put on my shorts and shirt again, but the socks never quite feel right after a sweaty morning ride. Ick.

Your stuff will be a bit different, but these are the things I can't live without. That and my water bottle. Clearly

Garden Party Success!

2009-06-15T15:41:00.007-05:00

We had so much fun this past weekend at the Bici Garden Party at Jones Valley Urban Farm! Some friends from Atlanta came down and seriously rocked the race. Before the race we did a seed bomb ride, and everyone had a great time throwing bombs all over the place. While I was handing out the seed bombs, everyone was asking "what is this?" "will this blow up upon impact?" "this smells delicious, can we eat it?" So I thought I would share with you all what the story is with seed bombs. According to wikipedia:

Seed bombing, also known as "Seed Grenades" is a technique of introducing vegetation to arid soils or otherwise inhospitable terrains. A seed bomb is a compressed clod of soil containing live vegetation that may be thrown or dropped onto a terrain to be modified. The term "seed grenade" was first used by Liz Christy in 1973 when she started the "Green Guerillas". The first seed grenades were made from condoms^[1] filled with local wildflower seeds, water and fertilizer. The seed grenades were tossed over fences onto empty lots in New York City in order to make the neighborhoods look better. It was the start of the Guerrilla Gardening movement.

Isn't that cool?!? We made ours out of red clay, used coffee grounds (hence the yummy smell), and the seeds of sunflowers, cosmos, black eyed susans, and daisies. My fingers are crossed that in a few weeks there will flowers EVERYWHERE!!!

Now you all must go out and bomb some shit.

Garden Party!

2009-06-09T16:33:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Paul Halupka for the awesome poster! See you Saturday. Come throw some seedbombs and hang out with us. Oh, and beer and food included. WHAT?!

Bike Love

Epic Bonk

2009-06-07T20:50:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, I decided to organize a group ride. I always love riding and pushing myself, so I was trying to think of a fun but challenging route. Bump and Grind, a Mtn Bike Race, was in town so I thought "Why not ride out there and back?"

I asked a few friends for routes, and kept hearing "It is not a fun ride, Elisa. Bad roads and nothing but hills. Are you sure you want to do that?" Of course, this clearly made me want to do it all the more.

I sent out a mass email recruiting folks and 3 gentleman took me up on my offer. Three accomplished cyclists, might I add. Heath, Alan and Brett. I was nervous to put it mildly.

Started out a bit rough, due to lack of sleep and general icky feeling. But I kept going. heath and I met Brett and Alan at Primavera Coffee, which Brett had kindly opened for us, offering us coffee and pastries. A bit later we took off.

Uphill both ways. Seriously. And getting hotter by the second. The hills seemed endless and the suburbs treeless. We made it to Oak Mountain and then made our way up the mountain to our watch point.

Oh, did I mention that I was left behind repeatedly? I was slower than the fellas and kept losing them up ahead. At one point, one was way ahead, the others were behind, and I had no idea which way to go. So, I kept on pedaling. Up the mountain we went, having lost Heath miles back. At the top, we look around, and realize that we have clearly missed our turn.
Back down we go, only to have to shoulder our bikes down the trail for about a mile (in Vans!). By this time, my pedal had broken and I had run over a squirrel (but didn't fall!). Eventually we all met back up, fixed my pedal, rested for about 1/2 hour to watch a bit of the race, and headed home.

I had officially bonked. It was bad. I was walking up the steeper hills and barely pedaling up the longer ones. Luckily, Heath felt enough pity to stay back and ride with me (Alan and Brett went ahead as Brett's tire was quickly losing air!).

It look at least twice as long to get back, what with all the resting and the stop for ice cream and gatorade. But, 8 hours after we left that morning, we made it back. My hands were bleeding and my body had streaks of salt on it. But I was triumphant. I had done it. I was in over my head and made it. We had gone over 60 miles, crossed 2 mountains (twice) and arrived home alive.

I am realizing that is how I will become a stronger rider, by taking chances and doing things that I am not sure I can handle. I may have taken rest stops and ridden more slowly than I would have liked, but I did it.

I am pretty damn proud of myself. Was it Epic? You decide...but I think it was pretty damn incredible.

Here's to a summer of Epic rides, being in over my head, keeping up with the boys, and keeping the rubber side to the road.

The Long Bike Back

2009-06-04T22:52:00.003-05:00

The gentlemen at Urban Velo brought this to my attention today. sorry if you have already seen it, but it is too good not to share.

This is inspiring and beautiful. Some days I don't ride b/c I just don't feel like it...not even thinking that one day riding may not be possible, due to a hit and run. Makes me want to get out and ride as much as I can. Keep the rubber to the road, and my hopes high.

Check it out at LongBikeBack.com. The ride has been over since 2008, but the film trailer is just ready. I can't wait to see the full length. Maybe we need a screening in Birmingham?!

How does it feel to be in last place? Sort of terrible, actually.

2009-06-04T13:34:00.007-05:00

I was reading the latest post over on lets go ride a bike and, after reading about Trish's disappointment over Tennessee's low ranking on the League of American Bicyclists list state's bike friendliness, I decided I would check Alabama's. I knew it would be low, but I certainly didn't expect that we would be in the very last spot. Number 50; seriously harsh!

I guess it's time for Alan, Elisa, and I to change that...ALL HAIL BICI!

This is where we live

2009-06-02T18:44:00.004-05:00

I think this is a coke factory

For today's post we have a ride that Elisa and I went on for Memorial Day with the BBC (Birmingham Bicycle Club). Thankfully we didn't have to get up too painfully early, and arrived at our meeting sight ready for action and adventure. Many of the people that were there we didn't know, but thankfully there were a few familiar faces. I was on whitey, my faithful steed, and Elisa was on a tandem with our pal Jerry. The excitement and suspense was high folks, owing to the fact that this trip was Elisa's first tandem experience, and we were both secretly wondering how she would deal with her face right up to Jerry's ass for a whole day.

Elisa and Jerry - not lovers

We got off to a good start and made our way through downtown Birmingham, our destination being Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson. No accidents, no car harassment, a few daunting hills, and some friendly chit chat, so overall a nice ride. Once we arrived at Turkey Creek, Elisa and I were ready to jump in and have a grand ol' time splashing around. Unfortunately most of our companions were not feeling so fancy free, and Elisa and I had to strip down to our bikinis in front of everyone (who, to say politely, were to the large part gentlemen not quite in our age range). Awkward!

some of the crew

We had fun anyway squealing at the freezing temperature of the water and being grossed out by the muck in the water. We crawled out after a few minutes and dried off on a rock before hitting the road home. When we went to retrieve our clothes one of the friendly gentlemen noted that I had tossed my dress pell-mell into a fire ant pile. He then proceeded to pick them all off for me while I contemplated riding back in my bikini. Thankfully that did not happen and my dress was ant free by the time I had it back on.

The ride home was not quite as easy as the ride there for various reasons:

1. There was a fast crowd and a slow crowd, with me riding pretty much solo in the middle, so the fast group had to wait a lot for everyone to catch up. That made the ride take a lot longer than anticipated

2. One dude got like 3 flats

3. One lady busted and broke her elbow while crossing a pretty crazy intersection

4. Another lady fell over while attempting to climb an insanely steep hill (I walked up, faster than those biking I'll add)

5. We took a faster way back because of the time crunch, which was along a 6 way highway with no tree cover - I got incredibly sunburnt

6. We were hella hungry

Patrick! He's a nomad, in case you were wondering.

By the end we were both grumbling, but overall had a pretty good time. And lots of beer and margaritas afterward.

Total mileage: i think around 42?

I need a little place in the sun sometimes or I think I will die

2009-05-30T22:27:00.006-05:00

Hello friends,
so sorry it has been so long since I last posted. Life has been completely kicking my ass and this little blog has taken a backseat. which sucks, because writing is one of the things that calms me the most.

Lately, I have been thinking about how it was only a little over a year ago that I bought my first bike. Since then I have been through 4 bikes and am more in love with riding my bike than I am with my...well, pretty much anything.

Some of you may have followed the blog that Bike Skirt was spun from, Triathablog. I was re-reading some of my posts from that time and came across this one. It is still true and yet I think of how far I have come since that time. I have been pretty stressed and down yesterday and find that if I don't ride, I feel significantly worse. Just as I said in that post, when I was a new rider, so excited and new to the sport and the life. I had just gotten Mick Jagger and was so in love. (sad)

So...I thought I would share it. Enjoy!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Mother's Little Helper
I know that lately I haven't really been getting too personal. I have been waxing poetically about my wonderful commute and extolling the wonders of bike websites. Well, tonight I change that.

I have depression and OCD. Take a moment to register your shock or laugh at the obviousness of that statement. Ok, done? I am also coming on the anniversary of a pretty tragic event in my life, and my job is so stressful that I leave with a tension headache every other day. I would expect to be a complete wreck, crying all the time or numbing out completely.

Strangely that has not been the case. At first, I thought I was not dealing, or must be avoiding issues. Then I realized that nothing lately has really thrown me for a loop. It stopped about 2 months ago. Right about the time I started riding pretty seriously. Coincidence? I doubt it. I feel great and so hopeful. My insomnia has all but disappeared and I find myself with more energy than I have ever had. I have never had such a great body image. I simply feel great.

THAT is the best part of cycling for me. It has been a scary thing, throwing myself into a sport and an established (male-dominated) community. A year ago this would have thrown me into paralyzing fear and insecurity. Instead, I am so excited and full of hope. I look forward to my next ride and find myself hoping that I can ride to wherever my destination may be (concert, party, grocery store, church...).

Is this from the support I have found in friends and fellow riders, or the actual riding? I think it is a bit of both. Either way, I am so grateful. Yes, life is hard and some things are hard to accept, but everything feels a little bit easier on my bike.

On another note, Mick Jaggar is so sexy right now. New blue tires and white bar tape. If my bike were a person, I would have a mad crush on it. Picture to come.
end

Looking back is so fun. it also shows me that this is no passing phase...my two wheeled life is here to stay.

@*$&^#%^!

2009-05-27T17:53:00.004-05:00

I now present for you: Bike Wreck #2!

After a meeting I decided to run to the Jones Valley Urban Farm after work farm stand to get veggies for a stir fry. I was riding down First Avenue South and turned right onto 24th St. Right after the turn I see a BROOM STICK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. Before my body caught up with my brain I had run over the stick, my bike wobbled out of control, and I slammed into the ground. The fall was actually very similar to last time, so similar that the hole in my leg has been unceremoniously ripped open and my chin and shoulder have gotten scraped in exactly the same place. Alas, this time it looks a lot worse.

(taken by Kevin)

Things to celebrate in the face of adversity:

1. There was not a car right behind me. Otherwise, I would not be writing this right now.

2. Wes Frazer saw it happen and turned around to save me. My hero!

3. All the other dudes that were like "Do you need a paramedic?" "Someone needs to keep you off that bike", etc. etc.

4. Good photos

5. An even more killer scar on my leg

Things to hope for:

1. No fucked up teeth

2. Swelling to go down quickly

3. Lots of sympathy (I've already gotten some Jack from Dani! Thanks hun!)

(Post Shower, taken by Dani)

This is where we live

2009-05-27T08:35:00.003-05:00

Ok I obviously suck at blogging - but at least it's here now! As the last post discussed, Elisa and I went to the Free the Hops meeting at Birmingham Beverage last Wednesday. That little bike trip provides this week's photo of where we live. Riding in these areas was a harrowing experience.

Ok gotta run! Hope everyone is enjoying summer thus far.

Brewfest on a Bike? It's on!

2009-05-21T11:48:00.002-05:00

Elisa and I had a meeting with the folks at Free the Hops about doing some Bici bike valet at the Magic City Brewfest, an annual beer festival coming up on June 5th and 6th at Sloss Furnaces. It took Elisa less than one second to convince them that it was a good idea, and they gave us a primo location (right by the entrance) to set up shop. Everyone seemed totally stoked on the idea, and we're hoping to get good press as well! Birmingham, as we constantly harp on, is not exactly known for being "green" so something like bike valet (our may be the first of it's kind in the Magic City) is sadly newsworthy. Hey, we'll take it, and we'll say thank you very much!

We're also planning some bike bus meet ups and different locations throughout the city so that people can ride together to Brewfest. It's going to be great fun!

Also, we need volunteers to help with the bike valet so if you're interested you can email me at anna@bicicoop.org

BEER! Oh, and in case you were wondering what this Free the Hops thing is all about - Alabama has a stupid law that limits beer sold to be 6% alcohol by volume or below, which prevents us from getting delicious "craft" or "gourmet" beers. Free the Hops has been lobbying to change the law for a number of years. We're on pins and needles right now because the bill has passed the senate, but we're waiting on the Governors signature for the law to be changed. He has until Monday night I think so fingers crossed!

Warning: Girl-centric post ahead

2009-05-20T21:49:00.002-05:00

****UPDATE: I have decided to give it a shot. Hoping my local health food/crunchy granola store carries it. Will let you know my progress...eventually. Oh, and if you see me around, PLEASE don't ask how it is going...posting this is embarrassing enough! :) ******

I have always said that this blog would be about what it is like riding as a girl in a cycling unfriendly and unhealthy (esp for women) city. So, it was inevitable to write about womenly things. That day has come...

Ok, ladies this one is for you. Has anyone ever tried The Diva Cup? I am curious about it and want to know what you think. Any cyclists out there tried it? Riding during that week is worrisome and uncomfortable so I would love anything that could help.

Let's just put it out there: you can't really wear a pad when on a ride. And tampons are fine, if you are ok with bleached cotton and chemicals and possible leaks (which, honestly, I have been up to this point). So, this seems to be a good alternative. unless it doesn't work, or the position cycling puts you in screws it up.

So, I ask you...anyone tried it?

if you are uncomfortable saying so here, email me at elisa@bicicoop.org

Thanks! And to our male readers...sorry and thanks for your understanding

This is where we live

2009-05-19T20:28:00.006-05:00

David and I went to a meeting tonight put on by the Regional Planning Commission to hear a proposal for changing some one-way streets to two-way streets. I was very excited to hear that they were planning space for bike lanes (which the city will have to decided whether to stripe or not) and also the number of comments from attenders aimed at making the bike lanes a reality.

This is a photo of one of the streets that would be changed.

And heeeeeeeeere's puggles! After betraying me a few weeks ago I had to put ol' puggles in time out, but I have finally forgiven and we rode tonight to the meeting. All went well.

Spring riding weekend: FAIL

2009-05-19T15:36:00.004-05:00

This weekend was a wet one. A very, very wet one. Today the sun is shining, the weather is cooler and I am stuck inside sick. I blame this weekend's rainy weather (I always seem to get sinus infections after a particularly wet weekend).

Saturday started out nice, although a bit cloudy. Carrie and I decided to go to Pepper Place market together early in the day. She on her Vespa and I on my new bike (details to come), riding the downtown streets looking...well, just adorable. Did some shopping and ignored the drizzle. Until that drizzle turned into a full on thunderstorm. The kind that you know will not subside and it is useless to try to wait out. So we parted ways and ran to our 2 wheeled steeds.

That ride was hell. Pouring rain, temperatures dropping and streets quickly flooding. I rode through many spots where the water was up to my knees. I can say one thing: it is a good way to break in a new bike! I got home cold, soaked and exhausted.

The rest of the day turned out lovely and we enjoyed Do Dah Day at the shop, amid the puppies and babies and heat and humidity. I got home just in time to miss the night thunderstorm.

Sunday was our planned Chief Ladiga ride: Part deux. We had already been bailed on by 1/2 the group, but we remaining 3 were determined. I cooked food the night before, got the bike ready to go and we set out at 8 am, knowing that we were probably going to get wet, but deciding to take a faster pace and hopefully be done before the storms rolled in.

After getting lost (my bad), we get to the trail...and it is raining already. Not pouring, but not sprinkling either. We laughed about it, questioned our sanity and took off. The temperature was slowly but steadily dropping and the rain was getting harder. After about 6 miles, my seat starting shifting (I can fix things but have trouble tightening them enough!), causing us to stop and thereby cooling our body temperature. Damn. Another 2.5 miles in water in my eye caused a stop, when we decided to just turn around. The rain was now a steady pour, with howling wind and cold temps plaguing us. 3 miles back, there was a slight bump...and my handlebars fell (seriously, not going anywhere until someone retightens things for me anymore!). That was scary. Rainy, slippery and suddenly unable to reach my brakes! eek

Made it back to the van, got in and decided to eat the yummy food I had brought...to discover that I did not bring enough, had we gone the whole way. We ate all of it and could have eaten more. After only 17 miles. oops.

What. A. Mess.

Rode back shivering and soaked, heat turned full blast, but able to laugh about it. The day wasn't a success per say, but it was definitely an adventure. Thanks Heath and Shaun...even though I led you astray and didn't feed you enough AND made us stop way too many times, you guys were awesome!

Hoping to try it again soon. But not too soon...I have spent today on the couch with a killer sinus infection and cold.

How was your weekend?

Sickness - A good excuse?

2009-05-18T15:51:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a great bike to work day; mine was pretty...interesting. I'll tell you about it, shall I?

I had come down with a cold on Wednesday, so I was off work Wednesday and Thursday. Friday I was ready to go back, and also felt the pressure to ride, although I had been laid up for the past two days. Everyone met at the Fivepoints Fountain at 7 am for a pre- bike to work ride around town. I've never ridden in a group before so I was both entertained and frustrated as we negotiated traffic, got separated at stoplights, and wondered where the hell we were going (it was a very out of the way route). We ended up in a parking lot in the business district, which is about two miles and another hill down from my house.
After some snacks, I was debating whether I could make the trek up and over, then up and over again, to work and was sorely tempted by the bus station across the street. The temperature was also rising rapidly into the 80s. However, Bikeskirt's dear pal Heath offered to ride with me most of the way, so I figured I needed to do it. BIG MISTAKE (stupid pride). I had to stop like 5 times and was disturbingly close to puking all over Heath more than once. I arrived to work completely soaked in sweat and sat for about 30 minutes before I was able to get up and do what I'm paid to do (which is, admittedly, not too much).
But, you know, at least I did it, and the ride back was pretty easy. The thing I regret the most is how much of a tool I looked in front of Heath, especially since he was told by someone (thanks, Elisa) that I am a surprisingly strong rider. Sigh.

Bike to Work Day

2009-05-13T21:53:00.004-05:00

We're hoping to see some familiar faces at Bike to Work Day on Friday; it's going to be great fun! for more info on what is going on in the morning, check out CommuteSmart. I will be at the fountain at 7 sharp!
After work, we hope you'll ride over to the J. Clyde tavern on Cobb Lane to hang and get your drink on. We're going to try and get there by 7 at the latest, but show up whenever you get off work or at whatever time is convenient - this is going to be a very relaxed form with no official start or end.

UPDATE! Specials from the Clyde:
$2 Leinenkugal Classic Amber
$3 SweetWater Georgia Brown
$3 Fuller's ESB
$3 Fordham Helles
We will also tap a Terrapin Rye Cask Condition Ale $8 Imperial pint (20 oz.) or $5 1/2 Imperial pint (10 oz.). When you purchase a cask order Fried Green Tomatoes for $3.
YUM!

get on your bike and ride to work!

bike love

This is where we live

2009-05-12T15:01:00.003-05:00

This would be my street. It's really hard to document the steepness of this road, but I'll admit that I have yet to ride up it; I go a more round-about direction. It's something that I would like to conquer one day though!

Halycon Bike Shop

2009-05-11T15:00:00.001-05:00

I spent last weekend in Nashville with my sister and her good friend. They had freedom from kids and husbands, I was taking a break from life.

Besides seeing Dave Matthews Band (who was INCREDIBLE!), I wanted to check out a bike shop or two. Obviously!

I only had time to see one, so I chose the only used bike shop in Nashville, that happened to be near our accommodations (which were kindly given to us by Trisha from Let's Go Ride a Bike...what a cute place she has!), Halycon bikes.

It was lovely. Local artisan hip and saddle bags, beautiful used bikes and cool staff working. I highly recommend you go in there and say hello. They have only been open 5 months and seem to be doing very well. In addition to the shop, they are running a Youth bike program in the back with the Oasis Center. Getting folks on bikes and supporting the youth of the community; we at Bike Skirt approve!

I took some photos. enjoy!

href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Zh1TTUrZudI/SgJKwXqoHnI/AAAAAAAAA6g/U37IYC1iMTY/s1600-h/DSC_0030.JPG">

Rapha Continental 2009

2009-05-07T08:01:00.002-05:00

I am sure you are all aware of my obsession...er, admiration of the hotties...er, fellas of Rapha. Well, it gets better. This summer they are doing a 25 ride tour of the country that includes a big chunk of the southeastern USA. Continental Calling. I couldn't be happier, as the South has beautiful landscape that is often overlooked. Ok, I take that back; I would be happier if they were coming my way.

May has been busy so I spent this evening getting caught up on their travels. I find myself indescribably jealous and wanting to get on my bike Rightthehecknow and join them. The photos are stunning, the stories vivid and the rides incredible.

I encourage you to follow them along their intrepid journey. They are being hosted by some pretty cool people and getting to see the US of A in a way that most of us can only dream of. Check them out here. If they are in your area, maybe you can ride along for a bit?!

*I am also trying to get a little post ride interview with Jeremy, who is meeting up with the guys for the Tennessee ride! fingers crossed*

New kids on the block

2009-05-06T21:07:00.003-05:00

I am coming to terms with the fact that Mick Jagger is probably not coming back. This has been hard, and I am still hopeful. However, it was time to move on and get rolling again.

One perk of running a Non-Profit Bike Shop is that I have access to loads of frames and bikes. A good thing in times of need...like this! Sunday morning, a mere 10 hours after discovering Mick's disappearance, we were hard at work getting me on the road again. One of my good friends (and bike mechanic) Heath and I went to Bici and took a look around. We found a great Specialized mountain bike that would work and made plans to work on it. However, we stopped by my house (where Bici is storing extra bikes) and discovered a beautiful blue Schwinn that looked just about right. Oh how excited I was. A mountain bike would be fine, but I am a roadie at heart.

Plans changed and we got to work on it. Spent a day and a half in the shop working feverishly. Runs to the Local Bike Shop and pulling parts from other bikes (wheels) happened. Then...voile! A new bike for Elisa! Isn't she pretty?

I have spent the past 3 days trying to figure out a name for her and today finally it hit me: Bettie. As in, Bettie Page, Bette Davis...heck, Betty Boop! I have never met a Betty I didn't like.

So, internets, meet Bettie. She and I are becoming fast friends.

Oh, and the week before the tragedy, I went and bought an old Schwinn Speedster from Joel, the bike guy. Her name is Kat Von D. She and Bettie are going to be buddies, I can tell. Kat still needs some love, but I will keep you updated on her progress.

Both bikes have beautiful features, such as Schwinn nameplates (is that what it is called?), pretty lugs, original parts and stickers. Nothing like a pretty steel bike.

This is where we live - numero uno

2009-05-05T16:39:00.003-05:00

In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, we here at bikeskirt give you a new weekly segment that will introduce you all to Birmingham, Alabama and the lives that we are carving out for ourselves here. For the inaugural post, I have here a photo of the one bike lane in town. It is nine blocks long and takes riders from Lakeview, which is about a block of bars, to UAB world (hospitals, etc). It is conveniently located to there area that Elisa and I reside in, and has been very useful for my school commutes.

Speaking of school, I am graduating on Thursday. YAY!

And finally, some updates: I am recovering well from my fall, and although I suffered some bruising and road rash, as well as that nasty chunk missing from my leg, I am overall only mildly injured. I've ridden a few times over the last couple of days, although not for any significant distance.

Elisa is still heartsick about Mick and has had no report regarding his whereabouts. However, she has been lucky to procure herself a perfectly lovely schwinn that has been fixed up for her riding pleasure. We continue to hope for Mick's speedy return.

Thanks everyone for your sympathy and condolences; bikeskirt has had an eventful week!

Mick Jaggar STOLEN! Help

2009-05-03T10:49:00.002-05:00

My bike was stolen last night. It was in my backyard (unlocked) from 8pm-1am and when I came home it was gone. I am just sick over this. Today Heath is coming to help me figure out another bike (thank goodness for Bici!). If you are in the Birmingham area and see him around, PLEASE call me. 205-706-7034.

since this photo I have added a 'This is Public Health' sticker and it says Mick Jagger on the drive side (Thanks Diana!). Pretty unmistakable.

Thanks everyone.

Guest Post (or how I begged to post this)

2009-04-30T14:27:00.002-05:00

Got an email from my friend Jacob today. Jacob, btw races bikes and is pretty much a total badass. I loved this email so much I asked if I could share it.

"fond memory: for a brief, shining moment, the kids4jesus (or whatever we were) group used to go on bike rides instead of sitting in 'big church' at night. it was like being let out of prison and getting sent straight to disney world. we would have like a 5 minute lesson about burning in hell or whatever, then go bombing down lucy finn avenue, through grove park to the dairy queen. my dad would give me $1.50 before church and i would buy a green or red slushee. we would sit on the benches beside dq and drink our slushees and i would flirt with amy southern and derek mitchell and i would jump over piles of dirt, and race. i always won.

that may have been the happiest i've ever been.

damn."

I mean, does it get any better than that? Nope, it doesn't.

Happiness IS a warm bike day.

Thanks Jake. Our condolences go out to you regarding the loss of Killer Bee, your 2 wheeled steed tragically lost in a race accident this weekend. he will be missed.

Sometimes we fall

2009-04-30T09:52:00.004-05:00

I had my first official and gnarly fall last night. I was riding my fixed gear, puggles, and the chain decided to pop off, thus immediately incapacitating my bike from any sort of movement, and rocketing me into the ground. The whole right side of my body is suffering from some serious road rash; unfortunately I wasn't wearing that much clothing, and the clothing that I was wearing was kindly ripped away once I hit the ground and skidded on my face a few inches, so little skin was protected. There is also a massive hole on my leg with some muscle and ligaments peeking through (photo to the left is me having a teeny break down after seeing how nasty the hole was; no one likes having that sort of thing cleaned out).

GO BIKES!

Haiku Wednesday

2009-04-29T11:55:00.000-05:00

it is already

hot as hell. totally drenched

in sweat. disgusting

May Day!

2009-04-24T11:51:00.001-05:00

From Bici

that's right kids. anna, elisa, and i have been working round the clock on getting the shop ready for our may 1st grand opening. special thanks to terry jacks at non stop art, the guys at cahaba cycles, banjo brothers, DTMT, and our good friends at primavera coffee roasters. Also thanks to all the folks who came in to help us finish build out.

the race format is a relay. each racer will circle a highland ave loop (starting and ending at the bici shop). we will probably have heats of three teams, timing each teams' time and the team with the best time wins. pretty simple. we will have some music inside the shop, as well as giving tours, taking donations, and sipping on brewskies. that being said this event is BYOB for those that are of age.

if you have any old bikes, tools, storage shelves, or money you don't really want we promise we will put them to use so bring 'em down.

** get your asses down here and support Bike Skirt and Bici!!**

Music City

2009-04-23T15:21:00.002-05:00

Hey there! This weekend I am taking a girls trip with my sister to Nashville (yes, to see Dave Matthews...I am not ashamed!).

Was thinking I may try to stop into some cool bike shops and/or Co-ops. Want to check out some other Dirty South shops and meet some cool folks. I am staying near Vandy and don't really want to trek all over the place. comment or email me at elisa@bicicoop.org

Thanks internets.

Bike Love!

What I really want to know is...

2009-04-23T10:33:00.004-05:00

My car is on the fritz (i.e. not running) so I'm the newest member of the "people doing life car free" club. I'm not so extreme because I have a scooter, but since it runs at a max of 37 mph and has no storage, it's not much different from a bike and doesn't get me anywhere that I'd like to or need to go otherwise.

So what I really want to know is, how am I supposed to go get a needed toilet seat from a place that is very difficult to get to and how could I tote that awkward purchase back home with me? How do you buy enough groceries to last you more than one day? What do you do when you need new underwear? Do you just buy everything online?

I feel like some people look down on us because we have cars but, honestly, I don't know how to do life in this city without one. Truly, there are no shops that carry underwear anywhere close to where Elisa and I live.

It's oh so quiet..shhh shhh

2009-04-21T23:41:00.003-05:00

I apologize for the recent silence here on Bike Skirt, but we ladies have been working like mad rabid animals on getting Bici - our non-profit bike shop/cooperative - up and running. We spread the word about Bici at a event aimed at combatting childhood obesity on Saturday at Jones Valley Urban Farm, an awesome group we're working with. Otherwise we have been wielding hammers and such while trying not to get electrocuted over at our new space. It's looking great!

The shop's grand opening is May 1, and we are having a relay race to mark the momentous occasion. You all should come on over and join the fun! I think it's going to end up being a lot like this...

Bjork - It's Oh So Quiet
Uploaded by scopitones

Some New Trend is more than just an awesome book!

2009-04-17T20:49:00.004-05:00

Well, it seems that we have a new trend in Birmingham...discounts for riding your bike to events! Tonight is the Peace Summit, and I just received word that the Kick off Party for Some New Trend is also giving $1 off the door for anyone riding to the event. What a great way to get people to your event and reward them for being awesome!

Maybe folks are realizing that cyclists rule...

So, ride to Urban Standard tomorrow night and get your laptop signed by Kevin and Carrie. Hear some awesome music by April Cover and dtmt (ask them what that means...it is awesome).

Maybe more venues and events will jump on this pro-riding bandwagon. If not, we are sure appreciative to those who did!

100 miles baby!

2009-04-16T23:02:00.001-05:00

I just looked at my new bike computer and I have officially hit 100 miles... in less than a week! Sure I had a 70 mile ride in one day, but I still think 100 miles in a week is not too shabby.

Wonder how many I can get in a month? This is going to be fun!

Bikes + dancing + Peace = good times

2009-04-16T07:27:00.003-05:00

If you are in Birmingham Friday night...come out and dance, dance, dance!! They are offering $1 off the door price for folks rolling up on 2 wheels. Let's max out the bike rack and fill the lot with 2 wheeled steeds.

The belly rules the mind

2009-04-15T15:06:00.002-05:00

Elisa and I aren't food snobs exactly, but we both praise Michael Pollan as a demi-god and love to garden.
So when we contemplated what to eat on our ride, I knew that it had to be done right. Yes we had cliff bars, and PB&Js were brought along for last ditch energy food, but I decided that the only way this would be a satisfactory ride was if I jumped in the kitchen and cranked us out some delicious nosh.
I was worred about eating things that would make us feel sick, that were too heavy, or downright disgusting. After scouraging the internet, I decided to go my own way, and I think we were all pretty pleased with the results. I was so pleased with our meal that I decided to share it with you all.
1. Pita sandwiches with homemade hummus, red bell pepper, cucumber, and carrot
2. Pasta salad with red onion, yellow bell pepper, pine nuts, and balsalmic vinegrette
3. Mollases cookies
4. Various Fruits

It was amazing and pretty perfect for a ride - protein, carbs, vitamins and minerals, ginger for tummies, roughage, so good!

Chief Ladiga

2009-04-13T16:15:00.006-05:00

We totally rocked the Chief Ladiga trail yesterday. Here's some photos for you all!

Bike + Rain = Wet

2009-04-10T12:10:00.003-05:00

It was raining when I stepped out of my front door with my helmet securely fastened and bike in hand. I cursed and went back inside to remove said safety apparatus and grab my car keys. Now it's beautiful outside and I, once again, am cursing myself for being so weak.

How does one convince themself that riding their bike in the rain to work is a good idea?

Welcome!

2009-04-09T21:34:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to give a shout out to all who might be visiting after reading the article in the Birmingham Weekly. Hope you enjoy your stay and come back often! Thanks a billion to Carrie Rollwagen, you rock our world with your mad writing skills. You can check her and our pal Kevin out at Some New Trend

Also, please take a second to visit the Bici website, a non-profit bike cooperative founded by Alan Barton and ourselves. The goal of Bici is to increase access, provide education, and be an advocate for biking in the city. Opening May 1 in the Highland Park area!

FYI to our regulars, BikeSkirt was featured in this week's issue of the Birmingham Weekly, a free paper distributed around the 'ham. As of tonight the article wasn't posted on their site yet, but should be up soon at www.bhamweekly.com

Bike love!

p.s. photo taken by T. Scott! www.t-photographic.com

We have a winner!

2009-04-08T13:43:00.003-05:00

On another note, I think it's time to declare the calf-girth competition winner:

SADHITA! Way to go! 17"!

It was a tight race, and thanks to all who participated. I hope you enjoyed measuring your calves! The highlight of this competition for me was measuring calves at my birthday party. My brother also has 17", but he doesn't count.

So you may be asking yourselves, "what has Sadhita won?" Well, here it is!!

"Bend Sinister" by Vladimir Nabokov (this copy published in 1964), a "Some New Trend" sticker, and a "This is Public Health" sticker, because, baby, you are public health!

Sadhita, to claim your prize, please email your name and address to anna@bicicoop.org (I sure hope you don't live somewhere really far away!)

Hooray!!

Health Action Summit and Wednesday Haiku

2009-04-08T13:34:00.003-05:00

As Elisa mentioned, she and I met a Pepper Place last night to attend the reception for a Health Action Summit on Improving Quality of Life. The speaker for the night was Dan Burden, of Walkable Communities. We thought it would be nice to share with you all some thoughts from the evening, so I've decided to give you all my notes. Scattered and nonsensical, but entertaining enough!

The pace of America is changing exponentially: time to build smart roads and smart transportation
Birmingham has great buildings, great block form, great street form - best he's seen (really??)
The first step is great LEADERSHIP (raise your hand if you hate LaLa)!!
Places to visit: Vancouver, Seattle, San Diego, Portland, Carmel
Up and coming city: Charlotte
"Bump into-iveness"
"reclaimed streets"
Trees, plants, ground cover - build an enclosure
Back up parking
Colorized bike lanes
22 benefits of bike lanes - only two of which are for cyclists
Cahaba road = eco-street

It was a great talk overall and really gave us hope that Birmingham is on the cusp of something great. But since I'm a pessimist, I tended to dwell on the negative things, like him spending half his time talking about parking and how it's great for business. Important things, yes, but it sucks that one of the only ways to convince people to change is to talk about the money. "It's beautiful, yes, but what's really important is that it's great for business!" And the first question after he was done talking: "who's funding this?" Sigh.

BUT BUT BUT

He said some really great things, and there were some pretty important people there, so lets keep our heads up, eyes forward, and hopes alive Birminghamians!

And on that note, I shall now produce the newest Wednesday Haiku:

Walk, bike, run, jump, sing
Take us to that magic place
Birmingham! Do it!

Tidbits

2009-04-07T22:40:00.004-05:00

not all of these are worth their own post (or maybe I am too tired and lazy to do it), but some things I have been thinking

*I do my best thinking from my bike saddle. Seriously
*I got to wear my winter cycling clothes again today and was glad...I love my Castelli jersey!
*I slipped off of my seat, due to a slippery skirt, then the bike came up behind me and hit me. Left a huge ugly bruise on my ass. I totally got my butt kicked by a bike. a bike!
*I got my bonus check today and DIDN'T buy a new bike. Paid off some debt instead.
*I may have to start editing my posts more carefully if the inappropriate comments and emails continue. Sad but true. Hey Creepy Creepersons...quit being so creepy! I have already taken my email off of my profile due to emails. Please, let's keep it safe here. I don't want to have to worry.
*New word-bumpintoitiveness: what cities and communities are lacking and what makes them liveable. The ability to bump into your neighbors and really live in community. I learned it when Anna and I attended a reception and talk by Dan Burden of Walkable.org. It was really inspiring!
*Check out Birmingham Magazine this month if you can. Bici is profiled on the Extra's page (no internet link)
*I heart my online community!

All girls Easter Ride

2009-04-06T22:08:00.005-05:00

This Sunday Anna, our friend Jennifer and I are riding the Chief Ladiga trail. It is a Rails to Trails project that runs from Anniston, Al to the Georgia State Line. 33 miles in, 33 miles back. It connects to the Silver Comet Trail, forming the longest paved trail in America (over 100 miles) which leads into Atlanta. I hope to ride the entire 100 mile ride in the fall. The Brocycle guys did it late last year (a rainy gross day, but they persevered)

We are all very excited and very nervous. It will be the first long distance ride for any of us. The weather looks good and we are pumped. Any advice for first time distance riders? The terrain looks pretty easy, although it seems to have a slight ascent on the way in.

It seems we will need some snacks, so I plan to bring Mick's pretty, pretty pink crate, although it will add some weight. Also planning to rig up a handlebar bag for one of us to carry tubes, pump, tire levers, multi tool. Too bad none of us have racks (well, I do but it is not pannier appropriate...attached to the seat post only).

If any other women want to join us, please comment here. The more the merrier.

oh, Anna and I will be riding this again May 17 (correction from what was previously posted) with Trisha from Let's Go Ride a Bike. So if you can't make it this weekend, you have another chance.

Wish us luck! Come and ride along! pray we don't get too many flats or die of starvation on the trail...

Some New Trend

2009-04-06T08:15:00.000-05:00

I love to read. I also happen to have some crazy talented friends. Said friends are writing a book, Some New Trend, and posting it online chapter by chapter.

Carrie and I were the masterminds behind 2 previous blog projects (one of which spawned Bike Skirt), Cheap Women and Triathablog, both of which were smashing successes! Kevin is awesomely awesome and also has a super hip blog, Weekly Fizz.

I debated about what to say here about Some New Trend, and I decided that I would just say this:

The book will be good. Both Kevin and Carrie are great writers and have been working really hard. They are also hella cool people who are funny, irreverant, hip, insightful and creative. You should read it. OR you can listen to the podcast (how hip are they?!)

Why post a book on the internet?
As many publishers scramble to find a way to present books (and magazines and newspapers) to readers in a digital format, we wondered—what would it be like to publish a book on the internet?

We like the idea of publishing as we go, getting feedback from readers along the way via comments and emails. Serialized fiction is nothing new—Dickens seemed to like it—but it seems to have fallen out of favor in recent years. We’re bringing it back! From the website's FAQ

Go now and check it out. You won't regret it.

why are you still here? GO!

Bike Lust

2009-04-05T17:16:00.000-05:00

I have been wanting to get a new bike. I was planning on getting an older bike and converting it to a single speed, which I probably will still do. However, I have been spending WAY too much time in my Local Bike Shop and am lusting after 2 bikes. One is in stock, and it is taking everything in my power not to race out to buy it today.

The other is one that is not even on the market yet, but will be in September (I think...). Plenty enough time to save up!

I could tell you all the specs on these bikes, but instead will just show the photos. Aren't they awesome??

Masi Speciale Fixed

Trek District (available Summer 2009)

The Trek District intrigues me because of a new Belt Drive Technology. When the guys at the shop told me about it, I was won over.

The belt drive is a carbon fiber composite belt reinforced to prevent stretch. The worry-free, lube-rejecting, lighter-than-any-chain-you’ve-ever-owned belt also produces a ninja-like quiet ride. (from Trek.com)

I love the simple lines and good looks of these bikes. I have officially started a Buy a New Bike Fund. New shoes be damned, Mama needs a new ride!

The guys at the Bike Shop REALLY shouldn't have given me a copy of the 2009 catalogs for Trek, Independant Fabrications (my favorite!) and Elektra. I can't stop looking at them and have had to wipe the drool up off the pages. Total Bike Porn.

It's Anna's Birthday!

2009-04-02T08:43:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to Anna! 25 is so the new 21.

Anna-you are awesome and I am so glad we are bike skirtin' around together these days! You make biking look good.

bike and birthday love

First ever bike skirt competition?

2009-04-01T21:07:00.003-05:00

So have you ever looked at the missed connections on craigslist? If you haven't, then you should do it...now...or after you finish reading this post.

David and I were looking at the women for men missed connections and there was this one titled "Rebel who stole fake sandwich at Subway". Who could pass that up? I'll give you the whole post, because it's just too good to paraphrase.

"Yesterday I saw you run in and take the artificial Subway sandwich off the counter and run out with it right before my eyes. I love a boy who's not afraid to take what he wants. I'm from Mountain Brook and I play vollyball for UAB. My calves are 11" around. My dad would never let me bring a guy like you home, so let's meet somewhere else. Somewhere quiet. Write me."

I was like "whaaaa???" 11" calves?! Who says that? Is that sexy? Is there some sort of rule about what constitutes good sized calves? The bigger the better?

Anyway, I decided to measure mine - 14" baby!!! Now, I challenge each and every one of you, dear readers, to go and measure your own calves and report back to me the number of inches you claim. I'm thinking the biggest calves wins...something...from my house...that's going to be really awesome.

Like a book (I have a lot of those).

Or a sticker.

Or an autographed picture of Elisa.

GO!

This is what every morning is like for me...sort of

2009-04-01T10:51:00.003-05:00

Thanks to Bike Commuters for this wonderful video.

bike commuting is sexy

2009-03-30T16:49:00.003-05:00

Here are a few things I learned on my commute this morning:

1. The Trek Soho travel mug doesn't keep anything hot (or even warm) for a 10 mile ride. wtf?!
2. There seems to have been some sort of squirrel massacre in Mountain Brook this weekend...they were dead all over the place
3. Lightweight Wool shirts (like this one) ROCK. keeps you warm when you need to be warm, cool when you need to be cool and wicks like crazy!
4. If you haven't tried on a dress since last season, make sure it still fits before you pack it. I have been working today in a dress that is about 2 inches shorter than is acceptable (the newly formed backside cycling has given me seems to have raised the dress up a bit!). oops.
5. Despite this-BIKE COMMUTING IS AWESOME

The 2 week test

2009-03-29T18:03:00.003-05:00

Well folks, I have decided to try going car less for 2 weeks. Tomorrow I drop my car off at the shop to have the brakes done and plan to park it again Tuesday morning and try my hardest not to get back in until April 13. Actually, I would like to not have to get back into it at all...but baby steps.

It is a trial run before I put my car up for sale. I am a little scared, but also excited. My sister and nephew came into town Friday, so I parked the car and we drove theirs around all weekend (a car seat is a tight fit in a mini anyway). Tonight I have friends going to Target so I asked to tag along. Mick is outfitted with a crate for hauling things (which I used for the bike cleaning day...fit tools, rags, shoes, cleaning supplies AND a floor pump in there!). I don't have fenders yet, but am hoping I can get a ride with a co-worker if it rains, which is predicted for Tuesday.

I will keep you posted on how it goes. I have yet to figure out a good, safe way to take public transport to work, but will be working on that this week as well. I am scared of becoming a pain in the ass to friends, so that will be tested during this time. Let's hope not having a car isn't a relationship killer...

This is daunting but a challenge I look forward to undertaking.

Wish me luck. goodbye Mini...see you in 2 weeks!

This is a blog by girls

2009-03-26T22:33:00.002-05:00

Dear cramps,

I have two words: FUCK YOU

I can and did still ride over that frickfrackin flipflappin mountain!

Papa's got a brand new bag!

2009-03-26T18:14:00.004-05:00

Check Mick out with his snazzy new crate.

he isn't afraid to wear a little pink!

(and I have a little nibble on my car, someone is interested)

Raindrops keep falling on my head

2009-03-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

I have been searching the internet and am coming up with nothing. How is this possible?!

I am looking into rain gear for riding. I have found tons of info about fenders and rain safety, but not much on rain clothing. What on earth do you wear to ride in the rain? I am thinking of selling my car and need some good rain gear. I have a rain jacket, but what on earth do you do for pants? Every pair I have seen have had an inseam of only 30-32...I wear have a 34 inch inseam (I know!!). Are there any cute rain knickers? or not even cute...just some that work?

And for shoes...I don't have the slightest clue. Headwear?

help a sister out!

bike love

Wednesday Haiku

2009-03-25T10:15:00.000-05:00

Azalea blooms,

Cherry blossoms, dogwood trees

Ride slow and breathe deep

C'mon baby drive my car...because I don't want to

2009-03-24T19:16:00.000-05:00

I. hate. driving.

Ever since I started riding my bike, I have hated driving my car. It feels...wrong somehow. Today I was driving home and wanted to run every red light, punch the butthead behind me who rode my ass and honked, and was nervous that I would be pulled over (more on that later)

I am also a crappy car owner. A few examples of this are as follows: I don't wash my car, I constantly let my tag expire, I wait too long to get an oil change and I hardly ever check my tire pressure. That doesn't even talk about paying my car note on time, carrying my current insurance card and my intense hate of pumping gas. This weekend I got 2 (!) tickets, one for an expired tag, and one for having a suspended license. How do you have a suspended license when you haven't had a ticket in over a year and you paid it? WTF?!

So, why do I have a car? Well, I thought I had to have one. I still think that my life will be more difficult if I don't...rainy days, cold winters, Hwy 280 (if you live in Bham, you know what I mean by that), travel to visit my nephew...the list goes on. Birmingham is a city that is NOT pedestrian friendly. However, I have a friend who did not have a car for a year and did fine. She then got a Vespa for another year (maybe 2) and also survived. It can be done.

What am I saying (what AM I saying...)? I don't want my car anymore. I found it after a car accident, which was not my fault, and I got much too nice of a car for what I need (I am such a typical American). Oh, did I mention that it has a Salvaged title? Yep, an ex-boyfriend convinced me this would be an ok idea. At the time, I assumed I would drive it until it died and the title wouldn't be an issue, and so far it has not. However, I am considering selling it and don't know what the market is for a 2004 Mini Cooper in fine shape, but with a Salvaged title.

In order to sell it, I need to clean it, replace the brakes (another thing I hardly ever do), change the oil, etc. Despite this, I am seriously considering giving it a shot. Maybe throwing a For Sale sign on it and waiting to see what happens. If nothing happens, I will keep it and life will go on. If I sell it, maybe I buy a cheaper car for emergencies or maybe I invest in rain gear and rent a car when I need it. For the money I am paying each month for insurance, car note and gas, I could have one sweet 2 wheeled ride AND afford to pay for a rental every now and again.

So, stay tuned. I haven't made any decisions yet, but the wheels are turning, so to speak

Oh, and if you or anyone you know, want to buy a red Mini Cooper, let me know. Less than 50K miles, leather, sunroof, all the good shit.

Extreme Makeover: Bike Edition

2009-03-22T21:36:00.000-05:00

Mick Jagger and I have had quite a week together. Here is the scoop on how Mick's makeover went down.

When I first got Mick, my friend (and bike mechanic) Heath fixed him up and told me that I would need to replace my cables soon. The first few months it was fine, just needed the occasional tightening and adjusting. Since then I have gotten a new chain, new pedals, new tires and new bar tape. Just the beginning...

Then I started commuting an extra 4 miles and over a mountain (photos to come, for those of you who have asked!). That was the straw that broke the cables back...literally. A week ago, I was having problems shifting gears. It got to where I couldn't change to the largest ring, so I tried to adjust it myself. Oops, I messed that up! I ended up adjusting the hi-low screws on the derailleur...much too much. Then I couldn't shift up OR down. Nothing like riding a Singlespeed over Red Mountain each day!

So, I called Heath again for some help, and brought Mick over for some TLC. Up in the stand he went and we tried to change gears...POP...the cable housing popped and the cable was a bent mess. He taught me how to check for the problem and I learned a TON. It was the best part of the entire situation, learning how to identify the issue and fix it. I learned how to tell if my problem was in the derailleur or the shifters and how to fix both.

The next day I learned how to change my cables and housing, but not without some drama...including realizing my wire cutters were shit. A trip to the store to cut some wires later, and we were good to go. I learned how to adjust the cables to make sure everything runs correctly. I can't believe the difference! My bike has never ridden as well as it does now. We also installed the new rear rack I bought and adjusted the headset so it was tighter.

It is so empowering to learn how to fix my own bike. At this point, I feel like I could change cables and housing myself and adjusting them, along with changing a tire, cleaning, checking brakes...the list goes on and on. Which is good, since I am trying to open a community bike shop!! We hope to do this exact thing, teach people how to fix their own bike and empower them. No more simply paying someone to fix Mick anymore. I sort of feel like a child "I do it myself!".

Oh, and I got a new saddle and I have one happy ass! My old seat was so uncomfortable and I tried shorts, tilting the seat, chamois butter (too much info?), and I am riding happy these days. I got a Bontrager inForm. I think it deserves it's own post, so stay tuned for that. I won't even tell you what my old seat was called at the bike shop, but it was not good...

This is a really long post to say that I HEART MY BIKE. I can't believe how awesome it is.

In other news, I rode to church tonight and discovered another bike in my usual parking spot (inside the doors)! We have nowhere to lock our bikes, so I think it is time to ask for a bike rack. I have been waiting for this day. Oh, and I had someone come up to me and tell me my legs looked great! Woot woot, it is working!!

Bike love

Ug! Ew! Arg! Gross!

2009-03-21T18:49:00.000-05:00

I certainly do love spring, but with spring comes unruly bugs. I spent a fair bit of time during my ride home's uphill climb trying to fish a blasted gnat out of my eye. Unpleasant on so many levels.

UPDATED: Assface WJOX DJ threatens cyclists on air.

2009-03-20T11:30:00.001-05:00

************************************
UPDATE: from Bici Co-op

Thanks to Jon for passing this link on.

------------------

My name is Lance Taylor, I am one of the co-host of the Roundtable on WJOX. My partner and I made some borderline ridiculous comments about cycling on Thursday and as you know there has been some obvious fallout. I do want to let you know, not that it matters, that what was blogged were not my direct comments. It really doesn't matter because my comments were uneducated. I would like to tell you that the past 48 hours have been a little strange and to be honest unproductive for all parties.

With all of that said I think that there is an opportunity for not only WJOX, but our listeners to learn a little bit more about what your community has to deal with on a daily basis.
As I have stated, I made a mistake, but why not use positive energy and let others like myself become informed of the dangers of motorists and cyclists.

If you have a moment please email me and let me know if you or someone would like to be a guest on our show this week to discuss.

Thanks and I hope to hear from you soon.
----------------

Personally, I think this is the best outcome we could have hoped for in this situation and hope that this does become the opportunity that Mr. Taylor has outlined. Thanks to everyone for writing and calling and letting them know how you felt.

-Alan

********************************************************************

Today (Thursday )on WJOX 94.5 Birmingham (around 11:50 AM) one of the DJ's advocated hitting cyclists with cars. He said "I wish people would hit them, just clip them and send them flying over their handlebars." The context was he was angry with cyclists riding in the road. I have called the station and have been put thru to voice mail with nobody responding. Maybe with added voices an apology and clarification will be achieved.........................................

PLEASE........ PLEASE........... PLEASE.......... LETS CALL TODAY, E-MAIL OR BOTH AND SHOW OUR DISGUST WITH THIS ATTITUDE AND COMMENT.

JOX 94.5 FM
WJOX
244 Goodwin Crest Drive
Suite 300
Birmingham, Alabama 35209
Business Office: 205.945.4646
Studio: 741-9450 or 800-239-WJOX (9569)
Fax: 205.945.3999
Program Director
Ryan Haney

Sales Manager
Lenny Frisaro

Promotions Director
Jennifer Dickson
EEO

Dirrty, Dirrty

2009-03-19T12:12:00.000-05:00

We know your bike must be dirty dirty, so bring it on down to Bici's HQ and we'll have the tools you need to clean your love and make it look as good as new!
A great way to get out into the nice spring weather, hang with your homies, and donate to a good cause.
$5 suggested donation.

Here comes the Sun

2009-03-18T11:59:00.000-05:00

Spring has Sprung here in Birmingham and I am so glad for it! Riding to work every day is like playing on the playground before the bell rings...so fun! I find myself laughing and smiling to myself as I race down the many hills on my commute and not minding sweating it out on the climbs up. Everything is so fresh and peaceful in the morning.

In the evening, I have time to relax and put work behind me before getting home. I get some of my best thinking done and feel like I have put the day away by the time I reach my front door.

I have been riding the entire way (as opposed to driving partway then riding) for about 3 weeks now. I love it. There is something wonderful about leaving your door then arriving at work with absolutely no gas burned and only having used your own power to get yourself there.

I was riding home yesterday and the sunset was beautiful. I normally get home a little too early to actually see it set, but I stopped off for beers with coworkers at a local pub so it was just in time. It was like the sky was painted red and orange just for my ride. You can enjoy a sunset from a car, but yesterday it was amazing. No windshield will ever be big enough to encompass it all.

Tonight I have to head to my LBS because Mick Jagger is sick. So sick that his cable popped and broke the housing. I also realized that in my trying to fix him last week I in fact made it worse. live and learn!

good thing I have a friend who is a great mechanic and teacher. Community is awesome.

I hope your week is spring like and that you are seeing many sunrises and sunsets on your journeys.

Need your advice

2009-03-16T22:21:00.000-05:00

*******UPDATE*********
I have gotten a rear rack put on my bike and am going to start strapping my pack to it or am putting a crate on top. Maybe I can even bring my handbag instead of the backpack on riding days!
also decided to get an old bike and convert to a SS. have a few that I am looking at from Joel "The Bike Guy" here in Birmingham. Thanks for your help everyone!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am considering spending some of my hard earned Hamiltons on a few bikey things. However, because my budget is small, I want to make sure I am getting worthwhile investments. So far I have not been led astray by the online bike community, so I come to you again for some advice.

1. Republic bikes
. they make inexpensive ($344...on sale from $499) track bikes that you custom design. I want a singlespeed/fixed (they are flippable) for riding downtown and on weekends. Just a simple, pretty bike. Republic bikes are both simply AND pretty. and for the price, It seems like a great deal. Comes nearly fully assembled and ready to ride. Has anyone heard anything good or bad? I just plan to use it to ride...no tricks (besides the occasional trackstand or skid), and I will probably add a front brake.

2. Commuter bag by Cyclelogical.

I can't use a messenger bag due to back issues. I had 2 of them, and once I switched to a 2 strap and had a seat adjustment I am feeling great. I know it is the bag because if I ever try to use my smaller one I get a backache immediately. BUT my 2 strap is my old LLBean that I got in 8th grade...even has my initials on it. Old Skool baby! Trying to put a water bottle, makeup, laptop, shoes and a snack is a challenge. Then I saw this great bag! It has (according to the website description): front stash pocket with opening thru flap for larger items (yoga mat, any tube like object or quick stash), computer compartment, shoe area, secured clothing area, laundry compartment, elastic stash compartment for computer cords or bulky items and a clear pocket for viewing items on the fun.

What more could I need? However, it is $125. I don't mind spending that on something that will get the job done, but... I am wondering if everything fits nicely or is squished in there? Also, how does it handle on your shoulders and back? Is the pack waterproof, or at least water resistant?

oh, it also has a velcro strip for a reflective strip OR a velcroable solar panel!!

Any help anyone can give me on these items would be great. If not...maybe I will bite the bullet, order them and do a review myself! (if anyone wants to send me one to review, that is also an option!!) :)

bike love

Back to the grindstone

2009-03-16T10:42:00.000-05:00

I have returned from Telluride, and am only marginally battered and bruised. It was so beautiful and fun! I was told by the homeboys at this used bike shop that each resident owns at least two bikes, and we saw an eye boggling number of bikes chained around town and people riding around. Amazing.

There was also a really fabulous brew pup there, so we took a really terrible picture of us drinking delicious beer.

Yesterday Elisa and I went on a lovely afternoon ride, first to V. Richards for a little snacky and then around Forrest Park, which is the neighborhood next to ours. They have some amazing houses over there, lots of trees and other foliage, along with some pretty hellacious hills. Near the end my arse really started to protest; I haven't quite recovered from the one hundred falls that I experienced whilst on the mountain (I really suck at snowboarding).

Our bikes, buddy locked in harmony outside of V. Richards. So sweet!

Now it's back to real life, and a thesis that needs to get written. Hizzah!

Action Wipes discount for Bike Skirt readers

2009-03-14T22:33:00.000-05:00

Action Wipes has generously offered Bike Skirt readers a 15% discount!

Bike Skirt readers - get 15% off at www.actionwipes.com. enter code: SKIRT

Now you have no excuse not to go and try some. And your cubical mate will no longer have to deal with your post bike...scent. Read my review here.

I think i may need to try the spray that you can use to reuse your action wipes OR spray alone.

Spreading the fresh smelling bike love.

If you live in Birmingham, please go and get yours at Homewood cycles. It is the only way to ensure they continue to stock them. Live Locally.

I am in love

2009-03-11T12:53:00.000-05:00

So, this being a blog about girls who ride, I would be remiss not to mention boys.

* I should mention that I am the only single contributor to Bike Skirt, so this post in no way reflects Anna's feelings, as she goes home to a stud every night. David, we should all be so lucky!*

ANYWAY, Alan over at Brocycle recently posted about Rapha Continental. Well friends, I am in love. With a team of riders. They are so dreamy! Cute boys (men, really) who ride bikes, have tattoos, and write beautifully (seriously, awesome writing), and did I mention ride bikes? and have tattoos?

I have never met any of these guys, but upon reading their bios, I have decided that they are all also hella cool.

Rapha Continental is (according to the website): The Rapha Continental is a collection of photography, ride data such as elevation charts, cue sheets and maps, and descriptive, if not entertaining ride reports. This is a two year project during which time we will explore, document and connect the routes and people unique to Continental riding. A style of riding as much about elements, environments and experiences, as competition and speed. Our long term goal is to create and publish a library of the most epic and favorite routes, rides and riders in the country, by region.

awesome.

Oh, did I mention that they rode the Tour of California? Yep, they did. Read their journal of the ride. Stunning photos and beautiful writing. I inhaled every portion of it, wishing I was riding alongside them.

Of course, this wouldn't be complete without some photos of the hotties (I mean, guys) of Rapha. Enjoy!

From Jeremy's bio: Someday soon Jeremy would like to ride in the South, The Deep South. He loves everything about that part of the world, the food, the people, all of it.

Well Jeremy...come on down.

In the meantime, visit their site, and check out the bikes section esp. Beautiful rides. Bikeskirt supports all riders, but especially hot guys who ride!

*BTW-I hope to update soon with more serious posts about commuting and life in Birmingham...but life has been busy. for a taste of what I have been up to, check out Bici's blog. We are hard at work trying to make that dream a reality.*

Review: Action Wipes

2009-03-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

Living in Alabama, the weather is…unpredictable. In December, we often have 65 degree days, followed by 12 degree nights. As Anna mentioned, this week we had 4 inches snow and then 74 degree days!

One thing is never unpredictable…Summers. They are always hot. Without fail. Spring seems to come quickly, bringing 75 degree days with it. Lovely, right? Not if you are a bike commuter who has to work in a building with no showers. Like myself, for instance, who has a 10 mile commute over a mountain and through a neighborhood of rolling hills. In the winter I would arrive hot, but nothing a quick swipe with a baby wipe and a paper towel couldn’t take of.

This week I got a glimpse of riding in the sun and heat and it wasn’t pretty. Baby wipes are wonderful, but they don’t do much if you are really gross, plus they leave you a little greasy feeling and smelling like a changing table.

Enter Action Wipes. I had read about these and wondered what they were like. I bugged (ok-asked once) my Local Bike Shop and they ordered some. Score! Even funnier is that after they ordered them, I won some online. Sweet!!

Let me tell you, I love them. L-O-V-E. They are large enough to use everywhere (tip: top to bottom, starting with your face), don’t leave you greasy and smell great. They have Tea Tree oil, Frankincense and Eucalyptus in them and you leave smelling fresh, not cloyingly sweet or annoyingly perfumed.

Another great thing: you can rinse them and reuse them. I wash them and use them to wipe off the grunge on my bike after a muddy ride. I also have one that I use as a dishrag. You simply wash them and reuse.

They are a little bit more expensive than baby wipes ($9.50 for 15 pack, $3.50 for 5 pack), but worth every single penny. If you live in Birmingham, you can pick these up at Homewood Cycles (thanks Kenny!). Anywhere else, ask your local bike shop or get them online.

As the weather heats up, don’t be the guy or girl who rides her bike to work, but is stinky and gross all day. that is no way to spread the commuting love!

More warm weather tips to come. Stay Tuned!!

Urban Velo

2009-03-07T17:59:00.000-06:00

Thanks UV for the shout out today! I heart Urban Velo and so should you!

If Urban Velo was a person, I would shamelessly hit on it.

is that bad?

Hey Fella, want to buddy lock?

2009-03-06T14:25:00.001-06:00

If Reese won't ride with Jake, maybe he should call me.

Just sayin'.

Strange Weather

2009-03-06T14:21:00.000-06:00

As I rode today in the 74 degree weather, it was all but impossible to believe that we had four inches of snow here five days ago. I wore a short sleeveless dress that flowed all around as the wind blew with and against me.

It's equally difficult to believe that tomorrow I will once again be immersed in snow. I'm hanging up my bike and hopping on a snowboard for the next week in Telluride. I've never been to Colorado (or any western states for that matter), so I'm totally stoked.

Sunday Ride

2009-03-05T15:50:00.000-06:00

Bikeskirt Group ride! Mark your calendars (or your iCals on the phone). This Sunday. 2pm. Meet in front of Rojo.

Weather is supposed to be lovely, so let's get out in it! I am planning on a fun, leisurely ride, so if any of you people who love to ride fast (Alan, I am talking to you!)come, be prepared. Oh, who am I kidding...everyone just come and we will see what the pace ends up being.

see you then.

*if anyone wants to brunch at Rojo beforehand, let me know. I love a good brunch!*

Wednesday Haiku

2009-03-04T10:28:00.000-06:00

cold night, but we ride

southern pecan, coffee stout

beer is good. and friends

Ride to the Clyde

2009-03-03T11:44:00.000-06:00

reposted from Brocycle

homies over at freethinkbham.com are having a weekly 'ride to the clyde'. from their blog:

Ride your bike to J Clyde tonight to hang out and get half-off drafts. Nothing official, just beers, bikes and buds.

there is no official meet up to ride their just be there around 8 on your bike. bring a lock...

Bikeskirters will be there. See you then!

Snow Day!

2009-03-01T16:29:00.000-06:00

This morning, I awoke to this lovely sight...SNOW!!!

obviously I had to ride in it. So I got dressed (skirt, boots, raincoat) and headed to a friend's for brunch. It was snowing hard. Let me tell you, it is not easy climbing a (albeit small) mountain on unplowed, undriven roads. I was sliding all over the place. In a curve of the mountain I heard a whistle and "Lady, you MUST be crazy!". Looked up and it was a policeman, standing next to a flipped over car, with a firetruck and ambulance nearby. I yelled back "Too late to turn around now" and he responded with "Hope you are ready to fall, because you are gonna!". Thanks for the encouragement.

needless to say, I did not fall (ha!), but did enjoy the sights. We don't get snow here often, so it is a very big deal. As I was riding, the park was filling up with families bringing sleds and cardboard to slide down the sides of the park and people building snowmen all along the road. It was lovely and so much better than being in a car (although perhaps a bit scarier...). Mick Jagger loves the snow.

The ride home was sunny and you heard water dripping as the snow melted. It was nice while it lasted.

sad car

I love Riding in the City

2009-02-27T20:41:00.000-06:00

Guess who is in this month's Urban Velo? That's right-me! You can check it out here. I contributed to their "I love Riding in the City" column. You should too! The folks at Urban Velo are awesome and have a really great thing going on. In addition to my little page, they also sponsored our Heartbrakes Alleycat Benefit.

You can get a paper subscription OR they offer it up for free on itunes.

So, thanks to Urban Velo. You guys are awesome.

(Seriously, go and contribute to the column. You won't regret it!)

Also-thanks to everyone who came out to the Bici Community Interest Meeting. It went really well and was really fun to sit around talking about bikes and bike shops with like minded peeps. Cyclists Rock!!

I heart my community

2009-02-25T22:04:00.000-06:00

Yo internets. Lesson of the night: when you ride to a party and there is wine, even if you only drink 1.5 glasses, you will still be dehydrated and your ride home will be slower than normal.

lesson learned.

The shape of things to come

2009-02-24T09:09:00.000-06:00

Puggles (formerly known as Geot) got his first flat this weekend, and, although I had the required tool and extra tube, I didn't have anything to pump it up with (and didn't think I had the lung power to make that happen). Puggles and I decided to walk home, and he sat alone and dejected, a crippled mess, for a couple of days.

Sunday I got my shit together and decided to fix that flat (new game show?)! I had to find a wrench to get the tire off (which, I didn't realize at the time of flatness, I don't have in my bag either...time for more tools) and then slammed it around for a little while trying to get the tube out. I had success in the end, and felt pretty good. So good that, after that was over and done with, I got out in the chill of the morning and cleaned that bad boy and lubed up the chain . He's looking pretty spiff at the moment, and I think we're both feeling like a new...being.

Thanks Homewood Cycles dudes for teaching me how to treat my bike right!

I'm thinking about getting some of those CO2 cartridge things. Does anyone out there use those and think they're worth it? The biggest problem I have with this whole biking thing is the amount of money I'm having to shell out. grumble.

Bike Saturday and car free weekend!

2009-02-23T12:47:00.000-06:00

Lately, it seems like Anna and I have bi-weekly Bike Saturday. Two weeks ago was a lovely Saturday involving bike shops and sunny rides.

Well...this Saturday was equally lovely. Ok, maybe not equally, but pretty close.

Once again, we headed over to Homewood Cycles for a Bike class. This time was level 2, bike tune-ups. Once again, it was awesome! The entire Bici crew came and we learned all sorts of stuff, including how to change a chain...which we practiced on Mick Jagger, as his chain was stretched and needed replacing. :) Nothing like a few hours at the Bike shop to make you excited about riding. I was reminded AGAIN of how much I love my bike shop. Walked out with a new chain and new gloves, not to mention knowledge and warm fuzzies (man, I am so cheesy!).

On to Primavera Coffee for a Bici meeting. With Prom behind us and our Community Interest meeting coming, it is time to get serious. Which we did, over delicious coffee. Starting a Non-Profit is hard work, ya'll. 2.5 hours later, we had accomplished so much and were feeling good. Overwhelmed (maybe that was just me?), but good. Are you coming to the meeting Thursday? Because you should be. go put it on your calendar now. I'll wait...

...Ok, now back to my story:
After the meeting, I decided to bike over to another local coffee shop to pick up something from a friend and indulge in my 4th cup of coffee. It was a nice ride, one that I had never done before. After spending an hour chit chatting and visiting, it was now 4:30 and the sun was waning. Time to try my new route home, the one I was hoping would allow me to get to work without having to drive part of the way. (Again, thanks to Homewood cycles for the route advice). I pulled on my gloves, slapped on my helmet and set off.

20 minutes later I was home, feeling triumphant!! (Then I collapsed and didn't leave the house again for the night...)

Sunday I got up late, really late. Decided to try the new work route round trip, since I had to go into the office for a few hours. I did it! Got over the mountain and all the way to Irondale. Took 45 minutes, which adds quite a bit of time to the morning commute, but well worth it. I. am. awesome. Only had to rest once along the way! Worked and rode home. Mapped it later and it is 18 miles round trip, which is not a bad workout if I do it 3-4 times per week.

I parked my car Friday after work and did not get back into it until 10:30 last night to pick a friend up from the airport. This, despite a busy weekend of dinners, concerts, bike classes, work and coffee shops. It felt like a turning point in my 'car-lite' life. All in all, a great weekend.

Was your weekend lovely, internets?

I've Got to be Me

2009-02-21T17:30:00.000-06:00

ok, I normally don't like to repost things (most folks check the same sites and it is so annoying when every site has the same video, article, etc on one particular day) BUT this was too fun not to be on Bike Skirt.

love it, love it, LOVE IT.

girls on bikes are hot. and awesome and girly and fun and badass.

bikeskirt loves girls on bikes. And boys on bikes. but especially girls on bikes.

Bici Community Interest Meeting

2009-02-19T14:00:00.000-06:00

Reposted from the Bici page.

Mark your Calendars! FEEL FREE TO REPOST!

Thursday Feb. 26 7pm
Nomad Supply Shop
916 23rd Street South
Birmingham, AL
Shop phone (205)252-9359

If you want to know more about what we are, how to help, or have ideas to share, PLEASE come! This is your opportunity to get involved and get to know us. Spread the word, invite your friends.

Nomad is kind enough to give us use of their space, afterhours, AND provide coffee and tea. If you haven't been to their shop, go and check it out. What they are doing is really wonderful and unique. We are excited about partnering with them. They are in Bici's community footprint and have similar philosphies, so we think this is the start of a beautiful relationship! :)

if you know you will be attending and want to shoot us email, that would be great...nice to know how much coffee we will need. But either way, please come out. We are going to be working hard until then on our vision for the future and our mission in the community...but we can't do that without your input. We want to be for the Community and made up of it's citizens.

Any questions, send an email to info(at)bicicoop(dot)com.

Bike Love!

Who's a klutz?!

2009-02-18T09:01:00.000-06:00

I have an estimated 15 bruises on my legs right now. I know how some of them came to be, but most are a mystery. One thing is certain - my bikes are somehow involved.

Dreaming

2009-02-17T10:20:00.000-06:00

I know that this will probably never happen in Birmingham, but a girl can wish, can't she?

Seeing this literally made me ache with longing and angst.

I am hopeful to see cities that care about pedestrians and are NOT just interested in the quickest way to get cars from point A to point B.

I AM encouraged for Birmingham's future, with the baby steps being taken. One example of such initiatives is Red Mountain Park, a recreational, public park space in excess of 1,100 acres. The park will include 18 miles of biking and hiking trails, fields and picnic areas. Still no timeline (that I know of) for when the park will be complete, but we will keep you up to date on the progress.

Got Canned Heat in my heels tonight

2009-02-14T16:46:00.000-06:00

No Valentine this year?
No Valentines Plans? Live close to Birmingham? well, then come out to The Heartbrakes Alleycat Prom Benefit!! you still have time...

details at Bicicoop.org. quick rundown:

Greencup books (richard Arrington Drive)
race at 7, party at 8
Andy's Tea Party (with our own Anna!) playing
DJ Nastique spinning some mad crazy tunes
Prom photo booth
$10 to party, $15 to race and party
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT BICI BIKE CO-OP!

See you there. I'll be dressed up, fancy like.

I leave you with this photo of my day spent running Prom errands on the bike. It was a lovely Valentines Day spent with my love, Mick Jagger!

Spring Fever Part Deux: The List Edition

2009-02-12T23:48:00.000-06:00

I will second Elisa's sentiment - we have had some fabulous weather here! But, unlike her, I was blessed with good fortune and rode all over the place this week!

Yesterday was particularly amazing because:

a. It was beautiful outside

b. Listening to Stereolab (the perfect music for a wonderful day of riding)

c. Great outfit (not a skirt this time)

d. Iced Mocha (Urban Standard saved my life!)

I was so thrilled about life and was feeling like a complete badass, so I made Alan come over and take a picture of me.

A few items to note from this photo:

a. I am double jointed in my elbows

b. Our roads are being repaved for a marathon

c. I got some sweet new gloves

d. Grr face

e. Alan is one helluva photographer

I am so ready to party this weekend! And then I'm going to need a serious massage.

Spring Fever

2009-02-12T15:41:00.000-06:00

The weather has been so nice here! High 60's and sunny. wonderful weather to ride.

Yet, I have only ridden once this week!! arg. Here are my stupid excuses:

Monday: was housesitting at a house that is actually closer to work, but farther from my safe route. So I drove to work instead of driving twice the distance to get somewhere safe enough to ride.
(I learned of a new route to work directly from my house that I plan to test run this weekend to make srue I know how to get there and the time it takes, etc)

Tuesday: RODE!!

Wednesday: Rain and storms predicted. Which did happen, but only in the middle of the day. So frustrating.

Thursday (today): woke up 10 minutes before i had to leave for work. Oops. So I had to drive like a bat out of hell only to get to work 10 minutes late. I also have to go somewhere immediately after work, which is when I really feel the pain of living in a cycling un-friendly city. There is no way to get to where I need to go on my bike. At all. All day today I have been sad that I didn't ride.

Friday: I.AM.RIDING. no matter what.

The guilt and remorse has been too much! Do you feel this way, or have weeks like this? In the back of my mind I know that there is only a small window of time between freezing cold and stupidly hot and humid, so every day that I drive feels like a waste and a shame.

To sunny days and Spring Fever and getting back on the saddle!

(oh, are you coming to the Bici Prom??...I hope to see you there)

Dream Job

2009-02-11T13:28:00.000-06:00

If I get canned due to the recession (I am not too worried, btw...but you never know!), I would LOVE to be able to go and do this. Originally posted at Urban Velo

Cargo Frame Building Apprenticeship
The Center for Appropriate Transport and Human Powered Machines is introducing the first cargo bike building apprenticeship program of it’s kind. Over the span of a 5-month intensive program at the hands of Jan VanderTuin apprentices will learn everything it takes to both build cargo cycles and run the business side of a retail frameshop and cargo courier business. Tuition is $5000 for one of the three spots, with on-site housing available at the campus in Eugene Oregon.

What a great way to spend 5 months. sigh.

Missed connection

2009-02-10T13:42:00.000-06:00

Male driving large dump truck. 7:15am, the super narrow part of Clairmont before it meets Crestwood Blvd. I was the blonde girl on the bike that you narrowly missed mowing down. Your coy little truck brushed up against my sleeve as you pushed me off the road. I can only assume that was a thinly disguised attempt to throw me off of my bike onto the ground where you could then 'rescue' me and provide mouth to mouth.

Well, Mr. Big Truck Man, two can play hard to get. My superior balance skills thwarted your effort for a damsel in distress style encounter. And the finger that I flashed your way...well, that could mean so many, many things.

I guess you will just have to wonder. (wink, wink)

Until then...get your fat ass truck OUT OF MY LANE!!! I was going roughly the same speed as traffic, thankyouverymuch. I am sure you saved tons of time getting to the stoplight 2 seconds sooner than I did. Phew.

Ew

2009-02-09T10:51:00.000-06:00

Does anyone out there have tips for combating dry skin?

I've been feeling particularly disgusting these last few days and my hands have started bleeding. I used some Aquaphor stuff but it makes me feel like a grease ball and I can't touch anything without leaving a slimy layer.

What to do?!?

Tragedy in Music City-Stolen bike alert

2009-02-08T19:06:00.000-06:00

This is a plea to all you readers in the Nashville area. Our friend, Trisha from Let's Go Ride a Bike, had her beloved Pinkie stolen last night.

If you see Pinkie around, please a) kick said thieves ass, b) call the cops, c) let Trish know.

Help us return Pinkie to her home!