tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218811088255508992024-03-14T02:13:18.913-07:00Fixed Gear TeessideThe home of Fixed Gear on Teesside.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-70991286488544634282012-02-27T15:43:00.000-08:002012-02-27T15:43:33.843-08:00Rain, Rouleur and RacesI did plan on riding today, but the weather turned and the heavens fell. That's not really an excuse, a really bad one at that.<br />
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The day was spent reading Rouleur magazine, whilst drinking coffee and eating brioche. <br />
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The start of the cycling in Belgium kicked off in good style at the weekend. Eurosport didn't cover them for various reasons and they cannot be at every race, but I managed to find a recorded feed and watched them from start to finish. Team Sky made sure they put a strong set of riders at both races and it paid off. Mark Cavendish, love him or hate him, showed his prescence and put Kurne-Brussels-Kurne under his ever expanding belt of wins. Juan Antonio Flecha took 3rd at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, even though I thought he'd win after his 2nd place finish in 2011.<br />
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It won't be long till our motorhome is loaded up and we're heading to Dover to spend a week following Gent Wevelgem and the 3 days of De Panne. I cannot wait!Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-37608362223660440542012-02-25T08:50:00.000-08:002012-02-25T08:50:33.455-08:00So called 'Road Tax'I'm 17 and just about to take my driving test. A few of my friends have recently passed and are constantly moaning about cyclists riding 2 abreast - when its perfectly legal and using the road in general. Today I saw a post on Facebook calling all cyclists c***s for using the road without paying 'road tax'.<br />
Here's the thing that to me; firstly the person in question is a spoilt brat whom gets his insurance, car, petrol and tax paid for by his mummy. Secondly the term 'road tax' in general. No-one pays it. If you drive, you pay vehicle excise duty (VED). This basically taxes you as a car owner for owning a car. It does not give you the right to the road. After a little research I found that, roads are maintained with money from general taxation, which every single person old enough/earning enough pays. Cyclists are just as worthy to the road as you are, now get off your lazy arse and do some exercise and save the polar bears.<br />
If you want to moan about vehicles other than cars using the road , moan about horse riders. I rode a few miles today to test out a new saddle/stem positioning on my road bike and the road was covered in shite. Next time I go for a ride and feel the sudden urge, I'm going to shit right there.<br />
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Rant over - Ryan.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l516/uniryan/IMG_0219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l516/uniryan/IMG_0219.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-49340214494324175892012-02-16T05:59:00.000-08:002012-02-16T05:59:07.836-08:00There has been a lack of posts lately due to work giving me every hour under the sun to work.<br />
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Hopefully now the weather has improved, the riding hours will increase and we'll get posting again on here.<br />
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I have had my review of The Collarbone app posted up on the <a href="http://www.thefootdown.co.uk/"></a> blog. Thanks to Ty for letting me submit that, really appreciate it.<br />
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If you've got a spare moment in your day, it would be great if you could have a read, leave a comment (good or bad) and check out the blog. Link is above!<br />
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Thanks<br />
DeanFixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-45754582794842071992012-01-23T03:29:00.000-08:002012-01-23T03:29:42.681-08:00Shit Cyclists Say<iframe width="480" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GMCkuqL9IcM?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-59676674908157809122012-01-23T03:25:00.000-08:002012-01-23T03:25:44.087-08:00It has been a while.<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMCkuqL9IcM&feature=youtube_gdata_player"></a> I know this video is doing the rounds, but it is funny and reminds me of going to Belgium for the Ardennes classics and to France for the tour. Hearing these things in real life is great.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-20534851608353688302011-12-26T12:45:00.000-08:002011-12-26T12:45:01.182-08:00Happy Christmas and all that.A day late but what the hell. Hope you all got some good loot and are well.<br />
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We didn't get out for a Christmas ride, so maybe have a joint new year/Christmas one. Itching to get out and ride with some more people again. Riding by yourself and practising different stuff is only fun for so long.<br />
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Luckily I've come into some money and thinking of investing it in a new bike. Something a bit tougher and can take the roads up north, as they're shoddy. I'm gonna keep the fast bike as it is my first fixed bike build. I've been trawling the sales online today as the LBS doesn't deal in fixed and I hate admitting it, but they'll be expensive.<br />
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If anyone has seen any bargains or has a recommendation, then shoot them my way or leave a comment. Looking for a complete build, unless there's some mega deal on a frame.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-19346840902744579792011-12-07T09:31:00.000-08:002011-12-07T09:31:46.505-08:00Stupid child...I know there's been a lot on here in the last couple of days but, this stupid kid made me laugh a little too much.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BZrgQ6HvpQo" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Big Top strap review coming soon, I promise.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-30239903425435804442011-12-07T04:06:00.000-08:002011-12-07T04:06:54.044-08:00Chilly ride out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1U9Ke7bO70gqPIKjO-eRij4J6ELGIGLetjCW6s5YW6_GjLCn-Tf4jwN4CG2FHrKJfJNO4_Fh23pviVOOKV_vmGBYY42g6EPl8oLn0c7ZIjkKggjTU74Um-_57V4PLQ6nSk64QzGAZNEVT/s1600/IMG_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1U9Ke7bO70gqPIKjO-eRij4J6ELGIGLetjCW6s5YW6_GjLCn-Tf4jwN4CG2FHrKJfJNO4_Fh23pviVOOKV_vmGBYY42g6EPl8oLn0c7ZIjkKggjTU74Um-_57V4PLQ6nSk64QzGAZNEVT/s320/IMG_0008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7kUstI1rmnhsd5MZb4QoDvUAjlLtiTK5QOTwcg1Tv0xsBOt7hp5fphuMcl1mi62vNcR1nIjZtmFvXBhVHIVXnXNcwqXSowaNedfI-ht8eRoHZTnFqGgEe5Z_38V3QiBu0erN0e7G41Ze/s1600/IMG_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7kUstI1rmnhsd5MZb4QoDvUAjlLtiTK5QOTwcg1Tv0xsBOt7hp5fphuMcl1mi62vNcR1nIjZtmFvXBhVHIVXnXNcwqXSowaNedfI-ht8eRoHZTnFqGgEe5Z_38V3QiBu0erN0e7G41Ze/s320/IMG_0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbH1f_k079_AQv0T3-Rg1M2peWuwl1gXKrPXh5RhLXJroV4Ff_ffyNtEJ_aFDxPE2oOMaArvjpy35Dmm9f30ANHEZArc6LuvExku50fFD3JwpnWJHEwobyRtVdeh7p0-Rl8Gly-ydDaHE9/s1600/IMG_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbH1f_k079_AQv0T3-Rg1M2peWuwl1gXKrPXh5RhLXJroV4Ff_ffyNtEJ_aFDxPE2oOMaArvjpy35Dmm9f30ANHEZArc6LuvExku50fFD3JwpnWJHEwobyRtVdeh7p0-Rl8Gly-ydDaHE9/s320/IMG_0012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTuqMJ4dAAWb8zaCBYFHCnyIIN1AKHloGD7sO75_mrHEDmrh-EhTwfRiuhcU7TsAWlIxeov8HGgVzd_t6IFlMHyOVzCBmlTEY4b7RAHGvs9PX71H6QzEX8VhJ2QCyWwPeSgEsTKAcy_Xb/s1600/IMG_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTuqMJ4dAAWb8zaCBYFHCnyIIN1AKHloGD7sO75_mrHEDmrh-EhTwfRiuhcU7TsAWlIxeov8HGgVzd_t6IFlMHyOVzCBmlTEY4b7RAHGvs9PX71H6QzEX8VhJ2QCyWwPeSgEsTKAcy_Xb/s320/IMG_0013.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>On a cold and frosty tuesday evening, we finally managed to get out and meet some other fixed gear riders. Josh and Calum, (I'm crap with names, so if I've renamed you, kick me next time) met us outside Ropner Park. Originally we were gonna meet inside the park at the bandstand, but winter means it closes early to keep the kids out. We headed off through Stockton and towards the Tees Barrage (which was also shut due to improvements for the 2012 olympics), stopping on top of the concrete multi story carpark for a picture and made friends with the security guard who was not too bothered, but we needed to move on as the police would eventually turn up. Made our way across the Millennium and Infinity Bridge, looping back round and headed home.<br />
Only a short ride, but I enjoyed it. Thanks to Josh and Calum for meeting me and Ryan, you're top lads and looking forward to next time. Hopefully we'll get a few more riders along and make it a longer ride.<br />
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I took a few pictures with the iPhone, as all the 6 battery packs for the DLSR were flat and the charger was at my girlfriends house. Typical.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-56323043027440851512011-12-05T16:01:00.000-08:002011-12-05T16:01:16.303-08:00God and Fixed GearYes, you're wondering what the heck I am going on about and no, I have not suddenly become religious whilst riding fixed.<br />
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BBC2 have included a fixed-gear-riding-teacher into their cast of Rev - a comedy about an inner city London vicar. The sad thing is that he is actually killed by a lorry after falling off his bike.<br />
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It made me think about fixed gear breaking into the mainstream - with Argos taking a punt with their bike, fashion shoots based around the bikes, 42x12 book making it to HMV (spotted by Ty from thefootdown.co.uk) and of course hollywoods own Premium Rush.<br />
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I think the coming months, especially in the UK, it will give us all an idea of what is going to happen with the mainstream trend. Maybe nothing at all and I'm presuming the worst, but it definitely will be interesting.<br />
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My girlfriend actually spotted this on Rev, so credit goes out to her (not sure if she reads this).<br />
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GodblessFixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-32947556975501853212011-12-01T14:00:00.000-08:002011-12-07T07:05:27.750-08:00Restrap Foot Straps ReviewI think it is about time that the blog had a review and what better than my <b>Restrap Foot Straps</b>.<br />
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My bike has been up and running for a couple of weeks now and I've not ridden a huge amount, but enough to know if my foot straps are working the way they should and by 'eck they are! I chose the horizontal version of the straps, but they do offer a diagonal strap.<br />
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Restrap are based in Leeds, Yorkshire (I'm from Yorkshire and like supporting local brands) and are expanding their product range to suit every type of rider and their needs. Focusing on getting the product right and to a high standard of finish are what they pride themselves on. They are doing this hands down and I can highly recommend using them. Postage was quick, well packaged and even had some stickers included - everyone loves a freebie!<br />
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From opening the package you could tell their heart and soul had gone into everything. The straps look and feel the part - made from recycled seat belts (3 layer velcro system) and are tough as old boots, but are still super comfortable. Stitching is solid and no frayed edges to be seen. You can be safe in knowing that you can fit these to your bike and they are gonna last a lifetime, whether you're commuting to work or riding freestyle.<br />
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I paid £28 and got free postage - for something that is hand made in the UK by people who give a damn about what they do. I cannot fault them and will be purchasing some of their other products very soon.<br />
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Pictures to follow.<br />
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Restrap have also got their Christmas Giveaway running at the moment - giving away one of their products everyday to one lucky customer. No better time than now to buy from them!<br />
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<a href="http://restrap.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://restrap.co.uk/</a>Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-34516075959895372552011-12-01T13:22:00.000-08:002011-12-01T13:23:03.904-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrPNO7AHuHlk7F1h7dfVq5dcyEBm2Ym_h2O15H0Bg6V-0yOcEKYfy7_fiPJtZF2ihuvyjBfUFkKpeo_nppOQwo3Fdo_9Mkt7CMiatp9k5-X_x4EjJMEyrHBhyfxed8YrRtbAm5zuewAdv/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrPNO7AHuHlk7F1h7dfVq5dcyEBm2Ym_h2O15H0Bg6V-0yOcEKYfy7_fiPJtZF2ihuvyjBfUFkKpeo_nppOQwo3Fdo_9Mkt7CMiatp9k5-X_x4EjJMEyrHBhyfxed8YrRtbAm5zuewAdv/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This didn't quite work the other day. It's the obligatory me riding my new bike picture, before I put the bar tape on and sorted a break out.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-87001345665038941882011-12-01T13:10:00.000-08:002011-12-01T13:10:54.650-08:00It has been a while...I have finally got my fixed gear bike up and running and I'm loving it. Haven't had it out for a long ride or anything strenuous, but what I have done has backed up why I wanted to ride fixed. I'm sure every rider has their own view, but I think the main one we all share, whether freestyle riding or just riding track/road, it's the freedom you have and the fact you can concentrate just on riding.<br />
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My parts/frame aren't the most expensive and I'm sure they will break and wear down, so I can replace them with better ones and keep advancing. For now I just want to ride and get as many riders in the area together on regular meets and rides. Winter is a bit of a crap time, with the gale force wind we have recently up north (deep v rims are a bad choice), and the threat of snow, but I'm sure we'll get something together.<br />
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You should all check out FURY Magazine's first issue, which was launched today. I've subscribed, downloaded and had a read. It is pretty fucking good to be honest. I don't ride freestyle, but I do enjoy watching people ride and photographing them and this magazine is a real tribute to it. I'm really looking forward to seeing where the magazine will go and how it will evolve as the fixed scene does in the UK. We need more of these magazines and to firmly seal our little place in the cycling world, which FURY magazine is really helping to do.<br />
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Enough of me rabbiting on, go get your download!!!<br />
<a href="http://issuu.com/furymagazine/docs/fury_issue_01_edited" target="_blank">http://issuu.com/furymagazine/docs/fury_issue_01_edited</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_cwaYkKz5pFiX0vl3u0wQ1fY5So-TJiHnGhK9itoRCwt3SFQrGHGMQS0Qzr0VM4IFGDXXNSjLjp7QtRnmTXGzio7FrVl1JL8eduQTQ30Ss3NWRy3B_ehU9aCNRQM3_wvkO8ydl4Wnlbn/s1600/318337_225383427530340_198136183588398_609051_634882016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_cwaYkKz5pFiX0vl3u0wQ1fY5So-TJiHnGhK9itoRCwt3SFQrGHGMQS0Qzr0VM4IFGDXXNSjLjp7QtRnmTXGzio7FrVl1JL8eduQTQ30Ss3NWRy3B_ehU9aCNRQM3_wvkO8ydl4Wnlbn/s320/318337_225383427530340_198136183588398_609051_634882016_n.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-17019070216494781342011-11-16T16:42:00.000-08:002011-11-16T16:42:26.793-08:00ErrorI thought I'd fit the tubes and tyres onto my new rims tonight in preparation for my frame arriving.<br />
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However I forgot to check that the inner tube I had pulled out from the parts box had a longer valve to fit through the deep v rims. After a couple of minute of me staring at the rim I realised that they were too short.<br />
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My excuse is someone mixed them up - not that I'm just plain stupid at times.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-23346801434097007832011-11-11T12:42:00.000-08:002011-11-11T12:42:13.035-08:00Newcastle fixedOur friends at <a href="http://newcastlefixed.wordpress.com/">Newcastle fixed</a> have been busy filming for a short film, documenting fixed gear riding in the north-east. The trailer basically shows the fun of riding, whether you're on a expensive track bike or a cheap rat bike. The part I like is, how the the guys promote the fun of getting together with your mates and having a laugh doing something you love.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/31754101?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/31754101">Newcastle Fixed Gear Trailer</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user1005455">Mr. T</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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Which brings me on to Cog on the Tyne, which I attended in September. The event went great and I was impressed with the turn out. Alleycat racing was a new whole new experience to me, which immersed me in the alien environment that is Newcastle. Struggling to find my way around the 'toon' to checkpoints, I can a miserable yet funny last. Next came <a href="http://www.boikzmoind.com/">Boikzmoind</a>, a 30 minute documentary about riding bikes with no brakes and no gears in a city full of hills - Bristol. The film was great; filming, editing and riding made for a very entertaining watch which I urge anyone who has the chance to get to a screening to do so.<br />
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Also: Look out for a review of the <a href="http://www.bigxtop.com/">BigxTop</a> foot retention system in the near future!Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-16437965818223694382011-09-13T03:42:00.000-07:002011-09-14T14:28:03.159-07:00Logo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rffKeGs8oCGM19kexR5QJjwewamBW5-lyZx0U6RAamAxyo9IzZi4nVvjaa8PVO2nl0vTBGiiELRsVwoy1lXuGV0T3TNlcqmtU03ezG7TfmPgzh5svPsUPAxkmMrjIHMJDwttLPbCR6Vi/s1600/fgt-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8rffKeGs8oCGM19kexR5QJjwewamBW5-lyZx0U6RAamAxyo9IzZi4nVvjaa8PVO2nl0vTBGiiELRsVwoy1lXuGV0T3TNlcqmtU03ezG7TfmPgzh5svPsUPAxkmMrjIHMJDwttLPbCR6Vi/s200/fgt-1.png" /></a></div><br />
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Phil who runs the blog for Newcastle has kindly designed a logo for Teesside. I am no good at drawing, so I thought it would be best for someone else to do it properly. I'm really chuffed with it and it's how I imagined it to be. I wanted something simple and bike related, plus Ryan (my next door neighbour who rides fixed) suggested that a local touch would be good to have on the logo - the Transporter Bridge. Later when I thought about it I remembered that this year is 100 years since the bridge was built and there's quite a few events going on over this month and next to celebrate it standing strong in the area and even making a tv career for itself in Auf Wiedersehen Pet.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-65606323783342438822011-09-06T04:34:00.000-07:002011-09-06T15:30:55.214-07:00Forum, events & parts!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4iajeGg4SnzRvxK2F0-jIHnlZ2RjO3zfZ_dh3uKNN0x1R1YJ9p-ZYIVpQ7vDvFOpASmAWdCyxvUaR6tp4mEwUUFy7rkK1_P_WkehiWnlxA9mLTKQLXgbVxtQFLMWnmFBirXWn27ZEach/s1600/2011-9-05-cog-on-tyne-alleycat-boiksmoind-newcastle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4iajeGg4SnzRvxK2F0-jIHnlZ2RjO3zfZ_dh3uKNN0x1R1YJ9p-ZYIVpQ7vDvFOpASmAWdCyxvUaR6tp4mEwUUFy7rkK1_P_WkehiWnlxA9mLTKQLXgbVxtQFLMWnmFBirXWn27ZEach/s320/2011-9-05-cog-on-tyne-alleycat-boiksmoind-newcastle.png" /></a></div>This hopefully should be the first outing in the fixed gear world. It's the closest event in a while and I should have the bike up and running by then, but not sure if I'll actually enter anything, as I'll be crap. Going up to see Boikzmoind is worth the train fare. But having a ride around and meeting other people is worth it too. Managed to get a forum setup on http://www.lfgss.com/ so many thanks to them again. It should help get more people riding around here and the people that do ride, it gives us a place to talk. Need to get some logos designed and put around the town, let people know and spread the word. Maybe some spoke cards too? In other news - managed to get in contact with a guy I met whilst following the Ardenne Classics this year, who has a body repair shop near to me. He's agreed to spray my frame so I don't have to rattle can it. Can't wait for this to be done, then I can build! Still pondering a colour, thinking matte black or is that just too original? Cranks arrived. Not the most expensive set, but I'd rather get up and running with good solid parts and then they can be replaced over time when I get more money. Here's a picture, just incase you forgot what a crankset is, but I'm proud that my parts are arriving. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEOjt_zKjllcqWN3pt_Y3j_PpL3OPiPJFbUMkJ5r71Kk5aZ2gd96XGh91YDe_peZSW05PiR5xccgk_Ad0pIZZKeVkyFx0kDLS577vYHHNYjdtVDQIEF8ZuFeSMqG3WmGVssaYRVe65PKRD/s1600/IMG_1804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="239" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEOjt_zKjllcqWN3pt_Y3j_PpL3OPiPJFbUMkJ5r71Kk5aZ2gd96XGh91YDe_peZSW05PiR5xccgk_Ad0pIZZKeVkyFx0kDLS577vYHHNYjdtVDQIEF8ZuFeSMqG3WmGVssaYRVe65PKRD/s320/IMG_1804.jpg" /></a></div>Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-62734463573691183152011-09-02T10:12:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:12:54.937-07:00Jonah Kessel<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28180282?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="400" height="225" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/28180282">Jonah Kessel</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2349752">Michael Chacon</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
This is doing the usual rounds on the net. I can see why.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-44846472966208085722011-09-01T15:47:00.000-07:002011-09-01T15:47:39.914-07:00Frame and others bits!After waiting a while to get a fixed gear bike, I can say I'm well on my way.
Frame/forks/headset arrived after the guy who I bought it off, kindly delivered it to my house so I could get building quicker, which was pretty awesome of him to do. Makes me realises even more that people involved with these bikes are genuine people and actually give a shit.
I'll post some pictures tomorrow of the frame. It needs a new coat of paint as it was stripped down by him to the bare metal and the cable lugs sanded down for a nice smooth finish. I have thought about spraying it myself and taking my time or having it professionally done at a local place for £60. I think that is good for a full respray of the frame and forks, using top quality primer and top coat. Gonna sleep on it, but I think I know what I'll do.
Since the headset that came with it is decent enough and has new bearings, I'll get the LBS to fit it correctly, just so I know it's done well. Been scouring eBay and other sites to find some bargain parts. So far I've bought a new chain (bit stronger than what I've got now), nice new crankset from espresso, charge bullhorn handlebars & kalloy brushed silver quill stem. Got them for decent prices and still got some more money to come from selling other bits, so purchasing a shiny new set of wheels is next on the list. Still cannot decide which ones to go for.
Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-7899764671782578942011-08-30T01:26:00.000-07:002011-08-30T01:26:04.436-07:00New Frame!Woke up to find out that I had won a frame on eBay.<br />
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I paid a little bit more than I wanted to, but it still leaves me enough to complete the bike I think. Like I've said in earlier posts, I have a stripped down road bike with some really good parts that should all fit.<br />
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Trying to post a picture, but blogger doesn't like iPhones, so a description will do for now.<br />
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22" Starnord frame, stripped down to the bare metal and all lugs etc have been cut down and sanded nicely for a nice look and finish. I hadn't decided what colour to spray the frame. Comes with the original forks, bottom bracket and headset, which have also been cleaned up.<br />
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Really looking forward to getting it an starting work!Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-75366079144723622192011-08-29T15:36:00.000-07:002011-08-29T15:36:14.172-07:00Long weekend.Just got back from a couple of days away in the motorhome. Was good to get away and into the countryside, just taking it easy. Took a bucket load of pictures, might upload some.<br />
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Dropped into Big Bear Bikes in Pickering. A few fixed gears in, but factory built and out of my price range. Plus it is not the kind of terrain for fixed around there, mainly MTB. I'm still gonna build one up, just struggling to find a frame for a decent price. I have got a bit of money saved up now and some more on the way I hope from eBay sales.<br />
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And I've just found out that my next-door neighbour has built a fixed gear and I didn't even know! There's a fixed rider right under my nose, ha.<br />
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Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-25196919086888415172011-08-19T16:23:00.000-07:002011-08-19T16:23:00.268-07:00Bike spot.Literally 2 mins after getting off the train to work and walking onto the high street, a guy rode past me on a pretty damn nice Bianchi, all chrome with classic stickers. I'm pretty sure it was a freewheel, can't quite remember, had a hectic day.<br />
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Weaving through the mid-day shoppers looked pretty easy, not that is really busy in the town, but glad to see something about. Better than the local chav riding his small children's bike.<br />
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Got some more things sold tonight on the dreaded e-bay, more money in the pot.<br />
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Gonna hit the sack.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-21835709326988247762011-08-19T05:16:00.000-07:002011-08-19T05:16:56.966-07:00Getting there.Hit a rough patch lately and I think it is starting to right itself.<br />
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Made some money this morning selling some stuff that I don't really need or use anymore. Hopefully there will be more money to come. This means the bike seems a bit more of a reality.<br />
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Got me thinking, do I buy new, buy second hand or build with a mix of old and new?<br />
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I don't think I'm gonna have enough to buy something really good from new, it still would be on a budget. Second hand is an option, but I don't know if it would feel like my bike and there's not many come up around here. I'm thinking that maybe building one will be the best option and I have some parts that I've collected up and that my old man has given me.<br />
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First off, work.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-8211376210099134452011-08-16T07:13:00.000-07:002011-08-16T07:14:46.155-07:00Day off work.</blockquote><a href="http://youtu.be/EllI6cEj6_Q"></a> What else to do when off work on a rainy day? Scout the net for bikes, videos and drink tea.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-39600942578739727052011-08-14T10:53:00.001-07:002011-08-14T10:53:15.120-07:00It's just one of those evenings that is ideal for a ride. Nothing strenuous, just enjoying the late evening sun and stretching those legs.<br />
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This makes want to get my bike up and running asap. I get inpatient with these things.<br />
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I've said to myself that I want it up and running before I start back at work on Thursday. Might get the train in and cycle home if it is nice.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-721881108825550899.post-78166490321066374622011-08-12T11:09:00.000-07:002011-08-12T11:09:15.288-07:00Gone fishing.I've had a little break from posting for various reasons and now I'm back.<br />
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Trouble with work, money and other things have made my mind lose track of things and the balance is getting back to normal.<br />
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As for the bike, it is still in bits as I search for my ideal frame. Still limited on budget and I mean a budget. But that got me thinking - do you have to have the most up to date frame and parts to enjoy fixed gear? Or bikes in general? I think not, but we'd all like to be able to spend £800 on something nice. I'm sure people might disagree with me, but I've never had the most expensive parts, unless my dad has upgraded and I've been given something, but that's not often really. <br />
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I actually saw a guy ride last near to where I live on a fixie. I'd loved for me to have been able to speak to him and have a chat. Apart from that there's not many about in the teesside area still. That's why I'm eager to get up and running, then get something going. Just a meet up with even a few guys and gals would be pretty cool - have a chat, see what we can do. So many ideas buzzing around my head.<br />
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In other news - waiting for my Team Sky jersey and podium hat to arrive. I saw the update on their site to say they have been sent. Gonna get it framed and hung up somewhere good.Fixed Gear Teessidehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479377096626913794noreply@blogger.com0