Baskets, Baby

Maybe you think baskets on your bike look silly, or unnecessary. But in the winter time, when you are wearing your down jacket because it's windy, 10 degrees out, but also sunny (only in Boulder) with your backpack on top, it gets a little hot under that jacket, right?? That role of sweat that comes down the middle of your back and you arrive at work/class very hot, gross, and a little agitated. So why not invest in some panniers (the containers that hang off either the front or back tire)?? These come in many different forms, including straight up wire baskets, waterproof removable cloth, or standard cloth. The prices vary just as much. Some start at $20 and the highly technical/waterproof panniers can cost as much as $150. Maybe this is a pricey investment, but trust me, you will never go back!!

Ladies: So You Wanna Buy a Bike??

Alright female riders. What do you want in a bike? Are you just in the market to buy a nice and easy bike in order to cut down on your driving costs? Or do you want to buy that highly specialized road bike that costs $5,000? If you are trying to decide on what type of bike to get, first decide on your priorities and when you will use it. But, if you are looking for a basic bike to get around town, why not look for a bike that has style?? Here are some colorful bikes on the market: (These are Treks or Electras).

Feminizing Your Bike

If you're like me, road bikes transform me into a serious biker (which I'm not) and make me fall more than usual (which is a lot). Even though road bikes look all nice and light, they're too much for me. So instead, I went for a easy mountain bike. Mountain bikes are easy; they have nice fat tires so I don't fall (as often). But the one thing about a traditional mountain bike: it's a little too manly for me. So, I decided to add a little "flare" to my bike in order to make it a little bit more like it was mine. I personalized my bike. First, I put on baskets so I could carry my backpack without having the extra weight on my back and then I added ribbons to the baskets. Then I placed a sign in my front wheel in order to make a bold statement. Check out these pictures!

Top 5 Hills to Cruise Down

1. NCAR Hill (West Table Mesa)
   
2. Folsom Hill (From the math building to Arapahoe)
   
3. Colorado Ave. Hill (From the middle of campus to 28th street)
4. Broadway Hill (Between University and Arapahoe)
5. Boulder Creek Trail (After the uphill battle)
   

The Future of Cycling... Helmets.

I am not sure I dig the "ant-head" shaped helmets that are likely the best, but you have to check this out.  It's a new helmet design sure to appeal to... er, some!

http://theletter.co.uk/index/4074/cycling_hat/full

Enjoy!

Helmet Feaux Pas

1. Wearing it indoors
2. Wearing it above the hairline
3. Wearing it backwards
4. Wearing it over the eyes
5. Leaving it clipped to your bike without a lock through it

We want to hear from you!

Welcome to the Unofficial Guide to Biking in Boulder! We want any visitors to comment on our posts with your feedback and thoughts. Tell us an enticing cycling anecdote, share an experience or let us know what you think of cycling in Boulder in general. If you'd like to post on our blog, send us an email at cutrans@gmail.com.

Cool Trails

The Broadway Boogie is a pure thrill ride. Speed comes naturally on this trail. It also connects to the Bear Creek and Boulder Creek trails so boredom never ensues. The Boulder Creek trail is a workout on the way up. This path ends at Fourmile Canyon Drive which is also a workout on the way up. But hey, no pedaling is needed on the way down. I broke the sound barrier on my way back into Boulder.

Top 5 Repair Shops

1. The CU Bike Station (for minor repairs)
2. Bicycle Village (28th and Pearl)
3. Full Cycle (on the hill)
4. University Cycles (Pearl and 9th)
5. Community Cycles (Valmont and Foothills Pkwy. next to Boulder Beer!)