Two Things

From the 2005 RAGBRAI

Cycling Season Is Over (Here)

In Iowa if you ride a bicycle you've probably been asked about RAGBRAI, the annual recreational, week-long ride across the state started in 1973. 

It's as if you don't ride a bicycle unless you are going on RAGBRAI. It gets annoying sometimes. I was asked this past Tuesday (while RAGBRAI was in progres), by a passing motorist if I was going on RAGBRAI. 

Ya know, people actually ride bicycles for more reasons than just RAGBRAI. But for the non-cycling public here, RAGBRAI is cycling. There is no other reason to ride a bicycle. That is fact, at least here it is. 

Another fact: Cycling season ends after RAGBRAI. Most roll their bikes into the garage after RAGBRAI and never look at those two wheels again until June of the following year. I know this as I was a retail bicycle mechanic for decades in Iowa. Other folks quit cycling as school openings approach, football season kicks into gear, and Fall yard work beckons. 

I see it every August. The precipitous fall off of cycling related activities, sales, and interest in the spot overall. The Collective just experienced one of its best months over the period I tracked from late June into July. This will be the pinnacle of our year. From here on out the business dwindles like the Sun in the horizon, with darkness coming sooner every day. 

I'll keep on riding all year, as I have, and as long as I can do that. But I'm a weirdo around these parts. 

Image courtesy of the Street Collective

Debate Rages On:

I've written a lot about conflicts between motorists and electrified vehicle users here already. I hate to have to continue this conversation,but this Summer the issue has reached a fever pitch here in Iowa. 

Local law enforcement departments across the state, local hospitals, and local cycling advocates are all voicing concerns over the sharp increase of wild, out of control use of electric scooters, e-Motos, and e-Bikes, mostly by under-aged folks who are not being safe in terms of themselves or others around them. 

Solutions voiced range from awareness/education to outright bans on cycling of any sort. The latter by ordinary citizens tired of dodging these vehicles.  

One hospital here in Waterloo had an emergency doctor advocating for motorcycle related helmets and full-coverage clothing for any two-wheeled electric device capable of going faster than 20mph. Some have advocated for users to have to obtain certificates by going through classes run by governments. Some are advocating for the licensing of the vehicles themselves, while others just want all of it to go away. 

 This issue has blown up this year to be a big-time problem and regular 100% human powered cyclists had best be aware of what is going on within their communities. If you ignore this issue you may find you are on the other side of the law when it comes to where you can ride and at what speeds you can ride at. 

I'm sure other parts of the USA are also wrestling with these issues. My gut tells me it won't be solved this year, at least here in Iowa, but when this all blows up again in 2027, and it will, something will have to give.  

Friday News And Views

 

Image courtesy of Gravel Worlds

 

 Gravel Worlds Re-brands:

 On Friday of last week news broke concerning a re-branding of Gravel Worlds. The event held annually in Lincoln, Nebraska, is going on its seventeenth year. The event is generally held around the second or third week of August and the course is a loop in and out of Lincoln. 

 Citing Nebraska's status as a top beef producer, the agricultural nature of the Gravel Worlds course, and the fact that the roads Gravel Worlds uses are primarily farm to market roads, the team at Gravel Worlds has designed an iconic logo. A logo which embodies the spirit of these facts. It has also incorporated the name of one of Gravel Worlds sponsors, McGrills, an outdoor grill brand which is manufactured in Beatrice, Nebraska. 

Following is a review of old Gravel Worlds logos, just for kicks..... 

Gravel worlds branding used most through the 2010's

 

Garmin comes on as a sponsor

In 2018 the site header lost the rainbow colors due to a cease and desist from the UCI

 

Celebrating 10 years in 2019

Obviously....

Logo from 2024, the year the founders of the event left and when the current team took over the event.

2025 header/logo

That's a good overview of how this event branded itself for most of its existence. Originally it was just a Pirate Cycling League event and the logo used was the PCL logo, but I did not include those in this mini-review. 

Virtual Ride For Jacob:

I was thinking the other day that there may be a few of you who might want to do a "ride for Jacob" but cannot come to Cedar Falls on the 25th to join me. Well.....what about a virtual Ride For Jacob? 

Here's what you can do. Let me know you've dedicated a ride for my son and tell me a bit about it. I'll send you a "Jacob" sticker. 

Just make sure I get an address to send it to. If you haven't seen one of these stickers they look like the sticker below. 

The story of your ride and why you did it can be sent to me at g.ted.productions@gmail.com.There is no time date stamp, so if you want to do this now, next week, or on the 25th, that is fine with me. I know of one fellow who is doing RAGBRAI who is dedicating a day to this. 

I guess if we want to make this a thing you could also send in a image or two and I'd post your story and images on the blog, much like I do for the Virtual Turkey Burn Ride. 

Or.....you don't have to do anything. Please do not feel obligated to write up anything, or even do a special ride. I'll still send you a sticker if you want one. 

Okay, that's really all I have for this idea. Thanks to "Tim" for the spark which led to this idea.  

Image courtesy of social media post

Wildfires In Northern Minnesota/Canada Affecting Air Quality:

Look, it's wildfire season again! And - of course - we need to be thinking about those losing their homes and livelihoods to these fires. And we need to be thinking about air quality. 

The map here is showing air quality for the Northeastern US for yesterday. Wildfire smoke issues are affecting a wide swath of this part of the nation. 

Whether or not we start seeing this in Iowa will depend on winds and air currents, but as of now we do not have issues here. However; we have had issues in the past and a few years ago, wildfire smoke pretty much shut down outdoor cycling for the month of June. 

Be safe out there! Inhaling smoke-riddled air is no joke, so consider not doing any cycling if your air quality is poor. 

 

Image courtesy of Trek Bikes

Trek Announces E-Fat Bike Models:

Trek announced a new e-Bike range on Thursday.. The new bikes are called "Borrego" and feature fat tires with a hub drive and 80mm suspension forks. 

Two models exist and the price starts at about $2,500.00.  

Comments: This looks a whole lot like the common e-Bike style we've seen from Radpower and other brands sold online. It's fairly obvious Trek is trying to reach those types of consumers here who would otherwise probably not look to Trek for an e-Bike at all.  

The price point may seem a bit steep, compared to the likes of other look-a-like e-Bikes, but here you have a dealer network and ostensibly a dealer network that will actually work on the bike when it inevitably needs work.  Try that with your Amazon sourced e-Fat bike. 

Maybe Trek will make a dent into this market, but it could be also that they are a little too late to jump on this bandwagon. I mean, this bike is totally ten years behind the times, in terms of tech and what is cutting edge now. We shall see how it goes....  

Not much else in the way of news for the week. So, that's a wrap for now. Thanks for reading Guitar Ted Productions! Now get out there and RAGBRAI, or ride however you ride!

The Problem Can Be Seen In The Mirror

From KCCI's social media

 NOTE: Large doses of "my opinion" will be handed out in gloppy dollops today. You've been forewarned.....

Years ago, maybe around 2008 or so, a representative from a company called Day 6 Bicycles showed up at the shop. He had an example of a 'foot-forward' electrified bicycle. The idea was the bike could provide an extremely comfortable ride position along with electric motor assist which would make the bike easy to ride. 

My boss at the shop took the front wheel motor e-Bike out for a spin in the parking lot. I watched as he zoomed back and forth. I would estimate he was going well over 20mph and without pedaling. I was alarmed. 

Why? It looked like a ton of fun. The bike put the rider in a really easy to use position. Powered riding would get more folks outdoors, out of cars, and maybe into pedaling more. 

Maybe.... Pedaling. Yeah, that means working, and if you don't have to work? Well, why would you? This is what alarmed me. That and the immediate acceleration to top speed. Unskilled or inexperienced riders on a heavy-ish two wheeled electrified bicycle? I saw trouble ahead. 

The future of e-micromobility is murky at best

Just this past weekend I was waiting for my wife in the car as she picked up an item at a big-box store in town here. I noted movement in my right side field of vision and then noted three youth riding electrified two-wheeled contraptions. One was a mini-bike kind of thing and the other two were scooters. They were in perfect formation, the scooters flanking the mini-bike thing and flying across the parking lot at near 20mph. No helmets. No adults near by. No regard for parking lot traffic. 

Ooof!

 Municipalities in Iowa are currently wrestling with coming up with ordinances and laws to regulate these devices and differentiate them from bicycles which have electric assistance. I posted about this recently here. 

Most agree that education, parental involvement, and some knowledge amongst law enforcement about the differences between what are bicycles and what are not bicycles will help. Certainly, this makes sense. 

But you are speaking about humans, right? We cannot even expect humans to follow the rules when it comes to current usage of any of the vehicles we use.  So why can we feel safe with regard to any ordinance, law, or public education measures when it comes to electrified two-wheeled vehicles like e-Motos, e-Scooters, and the like? 

The problem probably cannot be rectified with enforcement of law and ordinance. You'll catch a few, but you won't stop them all. Getting any kind of stoppage of sales of these things would be great, but if people are making money off sales of these things, you'll have a hard time stopping the in-flow of the devices used to create these issues. And, of course, there are a lot of these things already here.

The final line of defense is relying on "people to do the right thing". This is the vibe I'm getting so far from these discussions. Sorry, but I cannot buy into this line of thinking. The problem with e-device abuse is what you see in the mirror. And to regulate that? 

I don't see the good solution yet.  

Friday News And Views

Image courtesy of the Polk County Health Department

E-Bike/Scooter/Moto Issues Reach Fever Peak In Iowa:

I realize this is a nationwide issue, but my focus here is on Iowa as it relates to the debate and concerns over electrified two and three wheeled devices. 

Reports of crashes, injuries, and damage are on the uptick. I saw a recent post by an ED professional (Emergency Department = ED) who was stating a case for helmet usage and proper education of children and adults concerning electrified vehicles. Stating a strong uptick in ED visits due to usage of these devices, the individual was pleading with parents, especially, to educate themselves and their children on the proper usage of these devices. 

Many municipalities in Iowa are also posting on social media concerning either education, laws currently on books, or about impending city ordinances which are being considered to regulate this surge of electric vehicle usage on streets and trails. 

Comments: The issues facing many cities are beyond the scope of control, in most cases, in my opinion. In view of how people are using these vehicles, it is my opinion that there are three basic user groups. One: Youth who are looking for easy transportation, thrills, and freedom from having to beg rides from parents or older siblings. Two: Low income people, either coming out of the legal system, or from other countries, who either cannot afford a car/truck, or cannot legally operate a car/truck, or both. Three: recreational cyclists who use e-bikes as a way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors who would not otherwise be doing so without an assisted bicycle or tricycle. 

Most concerns I see being voiced are over misuse or ignorance (or both) and point at the underage crowd on these vehicles as being a menace to society. I do not see much concern over low income/disadvantaged folks using even the vehicles which are prohibited by law to be ridden without a license and insurance. That said, there are probably a few instances where these folks are causing problems. Most assuredly most of this segment is on these electrified vehicles because they cannot get, or afford insurance and/or a license. The third crowd, the e-bikers with assisted pedaling platforms, are generally no big deal to anyone. 

What will likely happen? Smaller communities with limited resources will likely ban them all. Most of these cities and villages don't even have police. They just won't have any other way to enforce or apply any laws/ordinances. (Unless they lump the e-motor vehicles in with side-by-sides) At the very least, the laws and ordinances will keep the city/village governments out of liability in case of crashes, injuries, or deaths. Bigger cities may try separating the assisted vehicles from the non-assisted ones, but again, enforcement will be limited due to limited resources. Police are already spread thin, and asking them to separate goats from sheep is not going to be efficient. Maybe states will get involved, like New Jersey did, but I think this will be hit or miss based upon the specific cases each state is seeing rise through their judiciary systems. 

My gut tells me the issue will become solved, mostly, when either states, or the Federal government steps in at the behest of insurers to make all electric assist and e-motor equipped two and three wheeled vehicles illegal unless they are licensed and insured. Essentially following the New Jersey example, if it is a successfully implemented law there. 

Time will tell, but I think it will have to be solved sooner than later. 

Substack Story:

Some of you here may already have noted my Substack account, maybe you follow it, but if not, I just wanted to point it out. 

I don't post there a lot, but when I do it usually is something I don't publish anywhere else. Recently I wrote a bit more personal story about BRAN and why I went on the trip. If you want to check it out, Click Here.  

If this sort of thing intrigues you and you like my writing, please consider subscribing to my Substack. It's free, and there is no obligation.  

Update On Chris King Hub/Wheel Build:

A slow news week here folks! So, I am going through the archives and making sure nothing gets left behind. I did come across the Chris king hub story from back in April. (Here) 

The hang up is in regard to rims and what I want to spend. Carbon is nice, it builds a strong, lightweight wheel, and is my preference. However; they are expensive for anything with a reputation for quality and durability. 

For instance, I can buy two Velocity Blunt SS aluminum rims for a little bit more than I can buy one decent carbon rim in a few cases, and for less than many single carbon rims in the size and spoke count I need.  

So, seeing as how money has been tight, or allocated elsewhere of late (BRAN), I haven't made any decisions for those hubs yet. I probably will not make a decision on rims for quite some time yet. 

Update On Ergon Review:

Another thing I need to get back on is the review of the Ergon SR AllRoad Pro Saddle and the BT OrthoCell Handlebar Tape.  Those items are on the Honeman Flyer and I switched out to ride the bikes I was considering for BRAN shortly after the review kicked off. 

Now it is time to switch over to these products n the Honeman Flyer to conclude the review. I have another item coming in I cannot speak about yet which will help push these reviews up my "to do" list. 

Interestingly, I have used the Honeman Flyer as a training bike for BRAN and since I've returned several times. I just haven't done any longer rides out in the country. I do have a bit of feedback, even from ny shorter rides, so it hasn't been as though I don't have any time on these products. I just don't have the gravel time I like to get before I write up anything. 

So, stay tuned for updates on both products here from Ergon very soon.  

And That's A Wrap! 

I know.....The tour is on now. (May as well hand Pogačar the trophy now) But I have almost zero interest in Pro road racing these days, so you are not going to see much coverage of it here. With that, I want to thank you for checking out Guitar Ted Productions today. I hope you all get out for a ride this weekend.  

Issues Escalating

Image courtesy of Trek Bicycles

We used to joke about this years ago. Whenever anything became "a thing" in the Mid-West it was old news everywhere else. Well, that's one thing when it comes to fashion, music, or culture, but it isn't good in some cases. 

My hometown where I grew up, a city of around 7,000 souls, is now in the throes of an e-bike dilemma. 

A recent report of a youth running into a car and causing nearly $1,500.00 damage has stirred up debate amongst the small town's populace. This seems to be an epidemic which isn't going away any time soon across all communities in the USA. 

Years ago I predicted this might become a problem. What's the quote? "With great power comes great responsibility". (from Spider-Man circa 1962) Give cyclists more power outside of what they can generate on their own, and well...... We can see the results, and it is not all good. Not even close. 

I likened it to when mopeds were all the rage in the 1980's. Youth were out of control on those machines many times resulting in conflicts and crashes with automobile users. Eventually these were effectively banned by making operators of these devices get licensed and insured. Now we are seeing similar efforts to effectively ban the modern-day moped equivalent in e-bikes. 

Trouble is these devices are infused into our society at such a fine-grained level they are going to be tough to regulate without taking out some of the rights and privileges of ordinary cyclists. As an example, a recent city ordinance proposed in Waukee, Iowa would have banned any two-wheeled vehicle with pedals and/or an electric motor from any street with a speed limit over 20mph. (Which is basically any street.), and also from bike paths. Good riddance to those pesky e-motos! But in the process you throw the baby out with the bathwater. Not good! 

Fortunately that ordinance was tabled. For now..... This is a ticking time bomb though. New Jersey already has a draconian law in place and they are ticketing law-breakers now. Other states and municipalities, strapped in terms of budget, looking for answers, and not having patience, are probably going to be pressing for things which many of us cyclists are not going to be happy with. 

Just keep in mind any kind of ordinance or law passed will have to be backed up with real enforcement, consequences, and legal backing, or those ordinances and laws will be paper tigers. Lawmakers know this, and my feeling is there is going to be no appetite for nuance in their solutions. 

The future for cycling will probably get interesting very soon. Probably not in a good way....

Friday News And Views

Iowa Wrestles With E-Moto/E-Bike Regulation:

Another ban (effectively) on all bicycles on city streets was defeated for the short term recently as the city of Waukee. Iowa had a proposal in front of the city council to consider a new ordinance unfriendly to cyclists. 

It's just one example of many scenes in city government buildings across the nation which exemplify the issues with electrified bicycles and scooters which are proliferating in numbers and are popular with under age kids. 

While solutions remain in debate, and fairness to those who need assisted bicycles or are using bicycles from the "3 Class" system are considerations, my concern is how any of this will be enforced. 

Yes, putting laws on the books more clearly defining e-moto from assisted bikes is an admirable and actionable thing to do, my sense is there are no more means to enforce any ordinances or laws making effectiveness of such measures questionable. Resources for law enforcement, ways to monitor trails, and ways to enforce the uses of electric bicycles on streets is not being addressed. A law on the books means nothing without enforcement and real consequences. Do any of these municipalities have the appetite to budget more labor and resources for backing up such laws? No one seems to be thinking about these things. 

If the backing, resources, and consequences are not real, neither will be any bill or ordinance providing for clarity on e-moto/e-bike usage. Signs mean nothing. Social media promotion is hot air. These cities and towns need to consider reality when looking at this problem. 

Spanish component maker seeks investments to avoid bankruptcy

Industry Turmoil Continues Into 2026:

The woes of the cycling industry which were predicted to have been overcome by now are still hanging on. In some cases, brands are folding up shop. Lynskey, a titanium frame manufacturer based in Tennessee, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy according to recent media reporting.  

Rotor, the Spanish component manufacturer, is seeking out investors to avoid bankruptcy. Giant and Shimano recently reported declines in sales over the first part of 2026. It seems as though the economic footing for many companies is still tenuous. 

It's been too many years now to blame this on the pandemic oversaturation in terms of inventory as most of the glut has been worked through by now. One has to wonder about what other things are holding consumers back from spending on cycling as more time goes by.  

Image courtesy of Assisting Force (Yes, that is really the name!)

China Cycle Show Promises Influx Of Gravel Frames/Forks/Components To USA:

Over the past several years I have started to pay more attention to shows like the China Cycle Show which has been going on this week. 

The trends in cycling are now being set, in part, by what is going on with China's cycling scene. There are many brands there, who have been making stuff you've ridden or heard about, under brand names you know. Now these companies are eyeing the foreign markets, (foreign to China) as places to make their own name directly. 

Take for instance the "Assisting Force" brand. The name may sound goofy, but the company is a serious one, having made frames, forks, and other components for other brands for 20 years now. Instead of selling to a company who slaps a brand name on the down tube and has to hike the price to make a profit (to support Western lifestyles and Pro teams, influencers, marketing, etc.), they now are seeking to sell direct. And since the profit necessary to make this work is only going through one set of hands, so to speak, the retail prices are lower. In some cases, alarmingly so. 

Frame sets, wheel, and even group sets are becoming better, more well known here, and are making inroads which the traditional brands are going to find hard to compete with. The future will be interesting to watch as consumers look at Chinese brands versus traditional brands. Which way this goes will determine a lot of people's futures.  

Image courtesy of Singular Cycles

Singular Offers New Drop Bar 32"er Pterodactyl Model:

At the recent Cycle Show in the UK, Sam Alison brought a new model which is now on offer in Singular Cycles range to show. It is a 32"er called the Pterodactyl which will slot alongside the already notable 32"er offering Singular has in the Albatross. 

The Pterodactyl is a drop bar design in titanium. Singular is offering it now on pre-order through this month only, for now. It features a Super Boost 157mm wide rear hub spacing for the best in wheel stability. A Columbus Futura full-carbon fork handles the front wheel holding job. The hubs spec'ed for now ar from Hope. The rims are a Willow branded aluminum tubeless ready design. Tires will be the Maxxis Ardent 32 X 2.4" although the claimed max clearance is rated at 2.5".  

Rolling chassis pre-orders are due by the end of May and are priced at $4,619.00USD. See more on the Pterodactyl HERE.  

Image courtesy of Otso Cycles

Otso Cycles' Fenrir Now In Steel:

Otso Cycles' entry in the "Fargo-eque" bikepacking range is the Fenrir. This bike was traditionally only available in titanium or stainless steel. Both materials which are nice, but on the pricey side. 

Otso has helped this situation out a little by making the Fenrir available in steel now. The Fenrir Steel is available as a frame set for $1,950.00 or in a few complete build configurations. 

The Fenrir Steel can handle both 650B and 29"er wheels with 650B X 2.8" or 29" x 2.6" tires being the maximum allowable. You can check out all the builds and finer details on Otso Cycles' website for the Fenrir Steel HERE. 

That will be a warp for this week. Thanks for reading Guitar Ted Productions! Now get out there and ride those bicycles!

Two Things

Image courtesy of Salsa Cycles

Make It Make Sense:

The trade paper, "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News", reported recently that Giant, the Taiwanese based bicycle manufacturer, and brand, of course, saw 22% lower revenue for January than it had a year ago. Trade import numbers are down a record amount to levels not seen in decades. 

So, when a new bicycle gets introduced and you see the price tag increase approximately 2K from a similarly spec'ed previous generation model, it doesn't quite compute. 

Maybe you've seen this advertisement from Trek pop up while scrolling social media. It was an ad with the heading "Whoops! We made too many!". In the ad were about five fat bikes and all the rest were electrified bicycles, some with prices slashed by 50%. 

Brands keep pumping out halo-models with high end, 100% human powered designs while some trade papers are saying electrified bicycle imports are higher than normal bicycle imports for the beginning of 2026. I see every electrified "bicycle-shaped-object" you can imagine being motored up and down my local streets and none of these are bike shop brand e-bikes. 

I received a call at the Cedar Valley Bicycle Collective the other day from an e-bike owner. His hydraulic brake needed service. Obviously, this is not within our purview, but this person, a Waterloo citizen, has to go to Cedar Falls (admittedly, not that far, but...) to find a full-service bike shop, and then there are only two independent ones. Additionally, if this customer's e-bike is not "the right brand', those two shops won't touch it. 

Oh, and Waterloo is a city of about 70,000+ people, and it doesn't have a bicycle shop. 

Make it make sense. 

Image courtesy of the Wilder 100

Feedback On The "Numbers Not Adding Up" Post:

First of all, a hearty "Thank You" to all who read the article last week and especially to those who took the time to comment. There were great thoughts shared in there. 

One of the thoughts shared is that perhaps gravel cycling is going through a "correction" in terms of participation. This is also something N.Y. Roll and I discussed in our latest podcast. (Spotify link HERE)

Another thought was the social factor isn't there anymore. Another point we spoke about on the podcast as well. But I think what was even more interesting was the comment I read regarding how many do not feel valued, or even seen, because so much focus is on the Pro field these days at gravel events. 

It is true at the "big" events where infrastructure, investment, and  outside media/industry attention is solely focused on elevating the Pro aspect of their events. The comment I found sad was "...in many cases a feeling like "we" aren't even who the event is for anymore." This Pro-focus of events and media/industry seems to be alienating many folks. 

There was an enlightening view expressed that due to how event directors see racing venue design, many events seem too similar. I never thought about this before, but now I can see this and it makes sense. 

On the positive side it seems series events are seen as a way to attend a smaller event without Pro influences and to be able to connect with many of the same folks at each event throughout the season. This also makes sense to me. 

The longer nature of event in some cases was seen as a detriment to continued support from riders in terms of attendance and a barrier to entry. It just takes so much effort and time to train for a longer event. 

And someone hit on the obvious rise in costs. Saying, in contrast to spending a lot to go to a bucket-list event,  "But at now over $200, plus hotel, food, etc. and roads/scenery pretty similar to what I can find close to home in Iowa for free." And this is kind of a killer when it comes to sustainability for these halo gravel events. Once the cycle of folks has had their crack at it, they likely will not come back if they feel alienated, find little social interaction, and had to spend a gob of money to participate in anonymity. 

Of course, it is not all bad news, and many an event will thrive in today's scene, but I would say there are some things changing which give me pause. 

Thanks again to all who read Guitar Ted Productions. 

Bonus: I have a new article up on my Substack, in case you'd like to take a look. 

It Is Too Late

Recently mountain biking and trials riding legend, Hans Rey, penned a piece for "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News" where he opines on the mess which exists in the e-Bike categories. 

In the article Rey asks for clear language surrounding pedal assist, and other, high-powered, non-assist electric two-wheeled vehicles. His main complaint is seemingly all of these vehicles are lumped into a single category by law-makers. Lawmakers who are trying to sort through issues stemming from unregulated products coming in and creating issues like fires, crashes, and parts failures which unfortunately sometimes results in deaths. 

I see this as a problem as well. However; it would seem Rey is asking for something which, unfortunately, it is too late to ask for. The genie is out of the bottle, and the bicycle industry has proven to be ineffective at self-regulation. 

Now the government is stepping in, asking law enforcement to enact new measures. Laws which, as in the case most recently reported on from New Jersey, make all electric two-wheeled contraptions essentially motorcycles. 

In other words, the government is not interested in the "three-class" system the bicycle brands dreamed up and most likely doesn't have the resources to sort it all out anyway. The regulations should have come first, then - perhaps - we could have stopped the importation of devices clearly outside of the set parameters. However; this wasn't done, and now we have the equivalent of an "E-Bike Wild, Wild West". 

Even the endemic brands to e-biking are pushing "updates" to make their machines more powerful. Easier to ride, and more power/torque? Maybe not a great idea for dirt riding especially.

I'm all for the electric bike which helps those who otherwise could not ride to get exercise, but the problems are not being created, for the most part, by this group. Unfortunately, it appears the solutions to the problems will affect this group, and that is a shame. 

E-Bikes And The Law

Image courtesy of A. Andonopoulos

 Recently a new law was signed by the outgoing governor of the State of New Jersey which pretty much treats every electrified bike/two wheeled vehicle as a motorcycle. 

See this excellent explainer video on YouTube HERE for a complete look at what this law might entail.  

Other states are also taking action, or considering to take action. Here in Iowa a recent study bill included language which pretty much would have made riding any bicycle  on any road with a 25mph speed limit or higher illegal. Thankfully this bill has been pulled at the moment. People in New York, Arizona, and in some smaller communities across the USA report similar laws being either enacted or are statutes and ordinances under consideration. 

Essentially, this all boils down to a few key points. 

• Deaths and injuries involving electrified bicycles, including fires caused by batteries for such vehicles, is compelling law makers "to do something about it.  This especially becomes a higher priority when people under the age of 21 are involved. 
• Due to how the original class system for electrified bicycles was set up, there were gaps in the system and opportunities for profiteering opened up. This was evidenced by the surge in Far Eastern sourced electrified, two wheeled vehicles which would satisfy the appetite of US citizens for cheap, high-powered two wheeled vehicles which could be ridden with little to no effort. 
• Law enforcement has an insurmountable task in trying to weed out the wheat from the chaff when it comes to the bikes which are undesirable, illegal, or safe. Basically, it is impossible for any law to address this and not affect those who benefit most from assisted cycling. So, "blanket measures" are being written and, in the case of New Jersey, enacted with little to no regard for nuance.

 First of all, the genie is out of the bottle when it comes to the three class system and making that the "standard" for e-Bikes. This has failed and is essentially useless as a way to regulate motorized two-wheeled transportation. So any attempt to point to this system and think we can reverse field and have things the way they were intended to be with the three class system is doomed to fail. 

Okay, what do we do from this point? 

In New Jersey, they essentially are saying all two-wheeled "things" are now going to be treated like motorcycling. License, registration, and DOT approved motorcycle helmets. Insurance. The works. Most non-cyclists and people in government are going to nod their heads in approval with laws in this vein. It makes it easy - No trying to weed out what is this or that. Kill 'em all, let God sort it out. Brutal, but easy to write a law by this standard. 

Of course, it is unenforceable. The law enforcement departments haven't the time, resources, or will to tackle a law like this in totality. So, essentially it becomes a tool for (a) local entities to raise funds via citations, (b) a tool for law enforcement to seek out more serious crime by pulling over people for riding illegally with an intent for looking for evidence , or interrogation leading to arrests for more serious crimes. It also could easily be used as a way to intimidate minorities or whatnot. So, from this standpoint, these sorts of laws are opening doors for abuse and uses not intended by the law specifically. From this standpoint alone these laws should not be allowed on the books.

But what about the kids? 

This is where I think it is prudent to have laws making it illegal for underage individuals to be on these vehicles. It would be easier to enforce, it would have wider support from the cycling community, and it would address the root cause for concern. Meanwhile, our government should regulate imports and force quality checks on these e-Bikes coming in which are not compliant with safety regulations currently. Perhaps e-Bike specific ones, drawing from the three class system, could be implemented as well.  

I;m probably missing a lot here, but those are my initial thoughts on this subject. I do know laws like the one proposed in Iowa are ridiculous and completely unenforceable. Why are we wasting time trying to write lazy law like this? Our representatives should be doing better. And - of course - 100% human powered bicycles should never be a part of this. 

Let me know what you think in the comments. 

Two Things

Cannondale Topstone Carbon 2 (Image courtesy of Cannondale)

Integration And The Future Of Bicycles:

The big feature being leveraged in today's top cycling brands is integration. Now for many of you, this may conjure up the image of seeing a lack of external cabling on a bicycle. While this is maybe the most obvious and well understood form of integration, there is more happening out there which falls under this term. 

Take for instance Cannondale's "Smart Sense" system. It is an integration of drive train, accessories, and your smart phone into an ecosystem which could be leveraged to do many things. Younger folks seem to have no aversion to "apps", and charging cables, but some of what Smart Sense does is troubling to this old codger. In my opinion, we are losing cycling's simplicity which has been central to finding escape and joy from modern world trappings.  

Smart Sense runs off a battery, of course it does! And it is USB C type compatible. Right! As it should be. You must charge the system if you use the rear radar and lights, right? No big deal. But did you know that Smart Sense uses a cable which runs from the battery in the down tube of the frame to the AXS rear derailleur because they are integrating the system using SRAM's e-Bike type AXS battery which, on an e-Bike, is running off the main battery pack? Crazy stuff there.... 

Anyway, I think you can see how my bicycle, with no batteries to recharge, might be a bit simpler and quicker to get on and, you know.....ride? Take a look at this page on Cannondale's site regarding Smart Sense and count the steps involved in going for a ride with Smart Sense on. Not easy. Not how I define easy, at any rate! 

And you know Cannondale is tracking your rides, right? The Smart Sense uses the app to send "maintenance reminders" and probably could be doing more stuff which we aren't quite aware of as well. I could see this becoming a system with a subscription to receive updates. And even if updates were free, what happens when your software is no longer supported? See that drawer with all your old phones and cables? Now imagine this as being a garage with old, unsupported e-Bikes and "integrated bikes" with no means to reverse the tech to run mechanical group sets.  

I just have an issue when technology causes more steps and more complications. Bicycles are amazing machines which are simple and efficient. Additional technology hasn't done much but make things more complicated and less sustainable. It has gone in a bad direction, in my opinion.  

Hmm..... Bicycles becoming "devices"? I'm not down, sorry..... 

Stained glass window art in Notre Dame Church, Cresco, Iowa

 On Being Recognized:

First of all, my uncle on my mother's side died Tuesday January 20th. I was called to be a pall bearer. As I was in attendance at this event, I was amazed by a couple of relatives who stated that they read these digital pages nearly daily. 

I am always taken aback by these encounters because, well.....I am amazed anyone would read what I am doing here. And to be reminded publicly that people actually do read these ramblings of mine, well, I am surprised every time. 

Surprised in a way which I react thusly: "Oh! This person actually reads my blog?!!" Wow! I really find it kind of surreal even after all this time. I always figure someone is going to say they read my blog and then give me some grief over something they didn't like, or say I'm trash, or worse, but so far...(looks for wood to knock)...this has not happened.....yet. 

Anyway, a funeral was the last place I would have ever suspected to hear compliments about this blog. So, Tom, if you are reading this, Thanks. George also mentioned he keeps up with me here. Thanks man! I know my cousin Dave also reads this stuff from time to time as well. It's just not something I take in as being a real thing, and maybe I should. Maybe I'm just not comfortable with being recognized, I don't know....  

I'll try working on that in the future, but in the meantime, just know I am very thankful for each and everyone of you who check this out. Whether it is one time or on a daily basis. Thank you!

Regulations Hit E-Bikers In New Jersey

E-bike repair que at a Chicago shop

Electric motors on assisted bicycles or on throttle controlled bicycles (mopeds) have finally been abused to the point which a state has taken the measures in their legislature to govern their existence. New Jersey's governor signed a bill into law on this day a week ago which now will require licensing, registration, and insurance, just like any other motor vehicle. 

The measure was precipitated by the recent loss of life of a 13 year old this past September who was hit by a vehicle while the youth was riding an electric motorized bicycle. 

The law, which New Jersey e-bike owners will have six months to comply with, will also regulate age of the operator at 17 years and the operator of any electrified bicycle will have to have a valid drivers license. 

The details of the story can be read online at "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News" HERE. 

Comments: First of all, thanks to Ari Andonopuolos for today's image. He sent this to me to show what he was seeing most often for repairs in a shop in Chicago. Those sure do not look like mainstream, pedal assist electric bicycles, do they? 

Comments on the stories I have seen on this development are mostly pointing fingers at these sorts of "bicycles" and how "online sales are pushing illegal e-bikes into the marketplace". The commenters are saying this is why we cannot have nice things when it comes to electrified bicycles. But really, if this is the reason for this law being passed, or one of the reasons, are the sellers to blame? 

Certainly, this may be seen as an unintended circumstance in the economy of the e-bike. However; when there was a void in the marketplace in terms of low pricing and availability, it is no wonder some companies stepped in to fill the demand. 

The demand..... Yes, it was the consumer who was the conduit for these "more-motorcycle-like" e-bikes to be coming into the system. Bicycle shops could not serve this demand, and so who fills that vacuum? The consumer has some responsibility here. 

In the end, this e-bike thing is evolving along the lines which I always figured it would go. Eventually we get to a place where it is easier for government to legislate rules and enforce laws regulating these vehicles. It sure looks like it is happening now.  

The "ALSO" Seeks To Redefine What A Bicycle Is

Image courtesy of ALSO

 Recently a two-wheeled electrified vehicle has been introduced by a company called "ALSO". Backed by electric car company Rivian, it shares several design cues from the brand, most notably in its oval, head tube mounted LED light. 

However; unlike almost every other eBike, ALSO is a decoupled, software driven design which can amplify a rider's pedaling forces up to 10X, or be ridden like a motorcycle. 

Limited to 28mph, making it a Class 3 by law, the ALSO is perhaps the first eBike with no mechanical connection to the pedals. This is a grey area in that the pedals are not mechanically "assisted" by electric motor power. Rather, the rider's input is measured and software determines the amount of "assist" to the rear wheel  In a way, the cranks are really doing the same things a "throttle" on a typical throttle based eBike is doing. Namely, determining final output to the rear wheel. It is not the same, or even similar to, riding a 100% human powered bicycle. In fact, since it cannot be moved in a mechanical sense by pedaling, is it even a bicycle at this point? Maybe it is a high-tech scooter? 

Besides the odd drive train, the vehicle has 120mm of front and rear suspension with 24" wheels. The range can be up to 100 miles, even with heavy reliance on the battery. (Or less rider amplification?) The battery is unique in that it is its own separate module. It can be recharged outside the confines of the bike, and it can even double as a power brick for other devices. 

The ALSO features native "dashboard" computer  with read-outs for typical cycling information, built in navigation, just like a car would have, and it even has satellite radio capabilities with the typical Bluetooth connectivity to play your favorite music playlists or podcasts. The aforementioned lights make it night ride-ready with a powerful headlamp and tail light. It can carry up to 324lbs (including the rider), and the "upper frame" module can be changed to configure the ALSO into a baby hauler, grocery-getter, or trail MTB all with the same chassis. 

There is a LOT going on here, so hit this LINK to learn more, if you are interested in this $4,500.00 two wheeled contraption.  

Comments:  Besides the question over what this is, I find the concept totally intriguing. This further defines why traditional bicycle companies are not connecting with the changing expectations of consumers. The Rivian connection here also exemplifies why some "out-of-the-box" thinking might be advantageous for the Treks and Specializeds of the traditional cycling world. Their offerings in a similar price range cannot come close to matching the feature-laden and versatility laden design of the ALSO. 

But then again, the bicycle based efforts of the traditionalists are, well.....bicycles. You can ride them without the battery being on. However; this also begs the questions: Do these things have to be bicycles at all? Is this what consumers really want? 

Apparent ALSO feels the bicycle part is far less important than we might think.  

Two Things

Clik Valves from Wolf Tooth (Image courtesy of Wolf Tooth)

 Clik Valve Gains Traction:

On Thursday Wolf Tooth  Components released news that they are supporting Clik Valve with a mini-pump, tubeless valve stems, and cores to convert Presta valves along with pump heads.

Of course, I am testing Clik Valve on a wheel set along with a pump I have converted over to the system. You can read my latest update on the system HERE, but suffice it to say that I am bullish on this new standard. 

I'm also trying out the Stan's Exo Core valve stems, a "traditional" valve in the sense that it works with standard issue pumps, such as you may already have. The idea being that they flow a higher volume of air due to their unique design.  

Which is better? Well, the better question is "Which is easier to use?" Also, which would create more satisfaction with newer users? In my opinion the answer is Clik Valve with no debate. Both the Stan's and Clik Valves flow air quite well, so I think this is a bit of a wash, but if you want to use tire inserts, I'd stick with something like Stan's valves for now. However; I've no doubt, given the ease of use of the Clik Valve, that this system will end up finding favor with many casual cyclists and cycling enthusiasts alike.

From an email sent to me by a Trek dealer

How Long Before We Need A License & Insurance?

Trek dealers are email-blasting their customer lists concerning this new eBike with a throttle control which, apparently, does not require "assist".

The new Trek FS+ 1S also comes with turn signals and brake lights. Coupled with the throttle, what does this make you think of?

I can't blame Trek. I mean, how many other niche eBike companies offer something like this, and have, for well over five years now? Trek, and other traditional human-powered bicycle purveyors wanted to pretend for years that "assist" was going to be what appealed to riders. And make no mistake, it does to cyclists. But many people who are buying brands like Aventon, Rad Power, and others of this ilk are not typically "cyclists" in the sense that they were/are rabid about pedaling something with two wheels.

Of course, there are exceptions, and spare me all the "If it weren't for eBikes I/my____ wouldn't be riding" stories. I get it. This matters. I'm not talking about this use scenario. I'm speaking about the perceptions "non-traditional", shall we say, cyclists are looking at this type of product.

This user group outweighs the "need to pedal" group by a large margin, at least around here. I also hear this from other areas of the country. Mechanics reporting how eBike users slam the bike into the highest gear, and leverage the motor to do "work". Reports of throttle eBike users who never turn the crank arms. Users who are clearly disregarding traditional cycling "rules" on their eBikes, if they ever knew the protocols in the first place.

Younger folks who see eBikes as the "latest tech" and traditional 100% human powered bikes as "antiques" akin to penny farthings. These user groups want to sit and be moved. They are not very interested in "working to move". I'm not saying they are "lazy", nor am I saying they are "cheating", but humans take the path of least resistance, given the choice, and throttles are easier. Period.

I've said it all along. These motorized bikes would eventually evolve into electric motorcycles. This new Trek does nothing to convince me otherwise.

Friday News And Views

Image courtesy of Keith Bontrager's social media.

"First Bontrager bike with a license plate."

  Since the advent of putting electric motors on bicycles, I have posited this idea would evolve into fully electric powered, two-wheeled vehicles. It would appear that Keith Bontrager, now retired, has been tinkering with just such an idea and has published an article on Medium detailing his efforts.

The article is long and essentially takes you from Bontrager's initial thoughts on electrified bicycles through his evolutions in prototyping and finally to a vision for the future which he feels will pull more people out of cars and on to two-wheeled transportation. 

This quote is pretty much the overall philosophy he has regarding pedelecs versus fully motorized two-wheeled vehicles: "An electrically powered bike without the pedals is likely to appeal to a large portion of the population who are not too wild about pedaling a bike around. If pedaling is not important to those folks, why not just remove them. That will reduce cost and complexity, and add useful cargo space."

Comments: I urge you to read Keith's words and caution you that much of it is technical in nature, but will reveal a reality I think is coming. That being the fully-electrified, no-pedaling vehicles with two wheels which will be what people really want. Cyclists will have a hard time with this, yes, but Keith's vision is what will be successful in the end, not restricting electrified two-wheeled vehicles to having to be pedaled.

Image courtesy of Black Mountain cycles

Black Mountain Cycles Reissues Road Frame/Fork:

Five years ago Mike Varley of Black Mountain Cycles discontinued the Road frame and fork from his steel bicycle line.  However; interest in having more made for the Japanese market has sparked a reissuing of the frame and fork in its original colors

The frame and fork can handle 32mm tires with ease, maybe 35's, and has fender mounts. This is a 'true road bike' so only caliper brakes here. The price is tentatively set at $895.00 USD depending on "what the hell" goes on with tariffs. 

You can learn more from the BMC Road page HERE. 

Comments: I usually do not talk much about pure road bicycles here, but I do have two BMC's for gravel and they both have been excellent bicycles. I have seen one of the original BMC Road bikes up close and they look really nice. I've been told they ride even better than they look. For the asking price, this is a killer deal and would be a better bike than whatever aero nonsense bike you can name would be for most riders.

Hmm.... I have an old Colnago which can run wider tires but for the fork I have on it now. This bike would solve my road bike issues and have tires the size I'd actually want to ride.  Very tempting....

Image courtesy of GRVL

GRVL Hydration Packs:

GRVL, a newer name in the market for gravel riding aficionados, has just introduced a new hydration pack for gravel riding. Featuring recycled materials in its construction, the pack is made to allow for ease of use and to provide the usual hydration pack benefit of having a water/hydration fluid available to the rider without reaching down for a water bottle. Many riders say a hydration pack makes them drink more due to the ease of accessibility to their hydration fluids. 

Other benefits and features include:

•  Hydration Bladder Included – Easily removable for convenientfilling and cleaning.

● Tailored Fit – Adjustable shoulder and waist straps with
elasticated sections provide a snug, comfortable fit that
allows for unrestricted movement and breathability.
● Quick-Release Harness – A simple 1-click, 4-point system for
effortless on-and-off functionality.
● Secure Storage – One large zippered compartment for the
hydration bladder and essentials, plus a hanging loop for easy
drying and storage.
● Reflective Detailing – Enhancing visibility for early morning
and late evening rides.

The GRVL Hydration Pack costs approximately $127.00USD depending on tariff situations at the time of ordering.

Comments: Hydration packs have always made a lot of sense for many riders. This version of the idea looks great, is made responsibly, and should work well. One thing - They only offer this to fit "up to" a 44" chest size. Well.....that leaves me out. Also, the I find their lack of vowels.......annoying.

Shimano 100 Works Book:

An incredible gift from a former co-worker and blog reader came on Tuesday of this past week. It is a 'coffee table' book of Shimano's 100 "best" products celebrating 100 years of Shimano's existence back in 2021.

According to my research, which could be wrong, this book was made available by lottery to those who entered to possibly be chosen to purchase one of 100 copies of the book which were published.

In following with the theme of 100, these books originally went for $100.00 dollars each, if you were chosen to buy one. I have seen a few on ebay with higher asking prices, so if you were to want to get one, it is possible, I guess.

I've no idea how my benefactor was able to get a hold of this, but obviously he did and now I have it in my possession. It is pretty humbling to think someone would want to buy this for me.

So, a public "thank you" was necessary and you know who you are who deserves this acknowledgement. Thank you!

Where We Came From:

In case you missed it, another couple of podcasts dropped this week in the "Where We Came From" series which is a podcast and blog post series describing how gravel cycling came to be, who were it's movers and shakers back in the day, and how things were done back then which led to the dominance of gravel cycling we know now in 2025.

On the occasion of Trans Iowa's 20th anniversary, I interviewed Jeff Kerkove, the co-founder of the event and one of the main influencers of how events were done  back then. In this episode you'll get Jeff's remembrances of how the event came together, his background as a cyclist which was important to getting gravel cycling and culture headed in the direction it ultimately went, and his thoughts on Trans Iowa's influence.

That episode can be listened to on Spotify HERE or you can get it on your favorite podcast provider platform. 

Next in the series we were able to corral a local gravel grinding pioneer, Mike Johnson, and get his take on how the early gravel scene worked and what he used to conquer events like Trans Iowa, the DK200, and other events leading up to his successful Tour Divide attempt. 

Mike shared what it was like before there were gravel specific tires, bicycles, and accessories. How nutrition needed to be figured out for ultra-distance events. Things like lighting, mud clearing, and clothing were all unknowns facing these early gravel pioneers and Mike was giving us great examples of these challenges they all faced as gravel grinders.

If you want to give this episode a listen you can check it out on Spotify HERE. 

Both these podcasts also help mark the 20th anniversary of the first Trans Iowa. I could have chosen many others to do this with, but this came together in a hurry and it worked out well for all involved. I suspect others from this era of Trans Iowa and gravel events in general will get their shot at telling their stories as long as we can record them. Stay tuned for more...

That is a wrap on this week! Get out there and ride some bicycles!