Susan

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

Name: Susan
Bike: Giant Upland aka “the shopper”
Occupation: Designer
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
Everyday
Why do you commute by bike?
Not only is it the fastest way for me to get to work it by far the most enjoyable.
Do you have any rain strategies?
If I am riding to work and it’s raining I pack a spare set of clothes into a waterproof bag, if I just get caught in the rain I have a jacket. I quite like riding in the rain so am not too bothered if I get a bit wet. My ride is quite short so I tend to just wear my work clothes but in the rain I’ll wear my cycling kit as it’s more comfortable and better suited for the rain.
Advice for new cyclists?
Ride your route on the weekend before you start that way you are familiar with the road and won’t be worried about timing etc. Choose quieter roads where possible and ride with confidence.
Name your dream bike.
Too many to name but am currently thinking about a CX bike, maybe something made by Sweet Pea Bicycles.
Favourite cycling shop/website?
I’ve quite a few favourite shops, having a good local bike shop is a must. Favourite site would have to be www.rocketfuel.net.au but am massively biased as it’s my own!
Would you recommend commuting by bike?
Yes! It’s a great way to start and end the day and its great exercise as well.
Favourite café?
Don’t currently have a favourite, will have to find one!
Additional Comments?
If your ride is short you can most likely ride in your work clothes, but if you want to excericse a bit harder or have a longer ride some quality cycling specific kit will make the ride more comfortable and as it’s quick drying will be ready for the ride home. Sometimes even small changes in your attire will make a big difference in the comfort of your ride so don’t be afraid to try something new.

Green Grocer On Wheels, Jakarta

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

Now I know this is not a bicycle, but you have to be impressed. He rides this everyday , I probably couldn’t ride it around the block, in fact, I probably couldn’t get it going from a standing start. I was told he would load up early in the morning, purchasing everything at the market, then ride around selling his produce. He also takes orders from his regular customers for them to collect off him the next day. It’s a great service, one I could do with because every time I cook a curry I always forget the coriander.

On the rear chain stay, near the tyre there is a large U shaped bolt that he places their to serve as a hand brake. Also notice he rides this in a pair of thongs. Would love to see how well this guy could ride a sub 8kg road bike, I reckon he’d fly!

Jakarta Bike Stores

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

I would  say that every large city in the world today has a strong bike scene and Jakarta is no different. When I was in an area called Senayan I spotted through a window of a large building what appeared to be a bike shop. I was with my father-in-law and my wife’s uncle at the time and we were heading out for lunch. I asked them if they wouldn’t mind if I had a “quick look” in that building because I thought there was a bike shop inside. When I entered the building it was a three level mall with not just one bike shop but about twenty. I couldn’t believe my eyes. And the quality and uniqueness of the bikes was incredible. I knew that a “quick look” was not going to be possible but a steak lunch was waiting. I knew I would have to come back if I could ever find my way.

Check out more pics at, Ciclo Fissato.

Adrian

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

Name: Adrian
Bike: Masi Coltello
Occupation: Graphic Designer
Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
2 plus Sunday ride.
Why do you commute by bike?
It’s for fun, fitness, health, keep environment green and to have a relationship with bike community.
Do you have any rain strategies?
I don’t ride when rain comes.
Advice for new cyclists?
Ride a bike – it’s not only for some trendy reason, but make it for your way of life.
Name your dream bike.
Colnago Master with Compagnolo crank set.
Favourite cycling shop/website?
Monster Bike STC, and Rocket Company
Would you recommend commuting by bike?
Yes indeed. Don’t forget to bring your tools and inner tires for back up.
Favourite café?
Kopi Thiam, and Pho Nam
Additional Comments?
Nope I think is enough.

Everyday should be Ride to Work Day

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

Photo: Ian MacPherson.

Sydney weather was perfect this morning for Ride To Work Day and it looked like a good turn out. We’re a long way from turning Sydney into a cycle-friendly city but on days like today I feel like we are making a step in the right direction.