NYC
words/images Judith Ecochard
BROOKS ENGLAND, PEDaLED, BOOKMAN LIGHT, BIKE GLOW
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| Brixton Tote |
Bicycles are a time honored way of commuting...around the world, and here in the USA, a growing way of getting to work.
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| Eton Leather Satchel-shoulder straps can be used backpack style |
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| Barbican Leather Shoulder Bag-w/adjustable shoulder strap |
How nice then, that an Italian cycling conglomerate owned
Brook England Ltd. --- a refreshed heritage brand with a collection of masterfully crafted panniers and cycle luggage, messenger bags, saddles and ponchos...is launching here.
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| Piccadilly Leather Knapsack-middle and Challenge Saddle tool bag (l) D-Shaped Saddle Bag (r) |
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| this poncho fits right underneath the saddle... |
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| Victoria Saddle |
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| rain proof poncho |
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| Pickwick Backpack made of water resistant canvas, leather trim, roll-top w/ Brixton Tote |
http://www.brooksengland.com
Another brand launching here hails from Japan...
PEdALED-
founded in 2007 by Japanese fashion designer Hideto Suzuki, FYI: The poetic expression “pedal earth diving” is the acronym of “PEdALED”.
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| weather resistant, reinforced shoulders for packs, with great front angled, easy access pockets -ergonomic sleeves, longer back |
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| cuffs role up |
The clothing we saw is in theory-is inspired by cycling---and are obviously -commuter friendly....with reflective details, ventilation features, and made of breathable natural fabrics---hemp, linen and organic cotton.
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| Eurobike Gold Award 2012 Urban Jacket-made from special waterproof, breathable cotton. Ergonomic sleeves, smartphone pocket, earphone wire guides, reinforced shoulders, pockets double as air vents |
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| back pockets, adjustable hood and hem via elastic |
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| reflective cords, storm flap-rip open, quick release |
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| RE VEST mixed textiles-wool plaid keeps core warm-made from recycled military stock----angled front pockets for easy access, two access back pocket-the width of the back-like a hunter's vest---though the tag states otherwise |
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| vest-reflective details |
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| Japanese denim...l/s shirt-shaped for riders...nice enough for going out on the town |
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| lether covered buttons |
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| sure beats using rubber bands---leather straps keep pants out of pedals |
Bookman is a Swedish company that makes easy to place on bike lights ---in fashionable colors...using a simple design-a rectangular shape with a curved underside for a snug fit on the front handle bar and rear saddle pole, an oversized rubber button for on/off...and a groove for attaching the elastic band. With three light options, slow/fast flashing, and steady light---the front light is white---the tail light is red. Water resistant-replaceable batteries.NICE.
If you want to be really visible---from a distance, or say, outer space-the BIKE GLOW is a relatively light weight.
WATERPROOF-battery operated light wire, secured with wire coils (included) that easily wraps around a bike's frame.
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| unscrew the nails---2 AA batteries go in here. A little screw driver is included in the kit. tape under bike saddle. Tape and a velcro strap, included. |
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| even Luddites will get these instructions-EASY |
Three light options-slow/fast flashing and steady...and in eight colors available for brightness that cannot be missed by those with their eyes open. MSRP $24.95
We tried it on our triathlon race bike ---and honestly we are loathe to add any weight on it...and found the Bike Glow-unobtrusive.
Better though---for commuter bicycles...especially in areas where it gets dark early. Or to wrap around our backpack when we go hiking during hunting season---when we don't want to be mistaken for Bambi.
http://www.bikeglow.com
