Vèlo Magazine by gabscestari

US $ 5.00 EU $ 4.50 AUS $ 5.50 RUS $ 12.00 R$ 16.40 ARG $ 20.00 CL $ 19.00 PR $ 23.00 MEX $ 15.00 SA $ 8.00

The magazine for the bike enthusiast

july 2015

DI S

TH C E

E N TI K BI THE SCENIC

FRANCE BE READY FOR SUMMER!

june 2015

vĂŠlo

? is What ite avor your f ute? bike ro

magazine

Editor in Chief

MIRANDA PRIESTLY Chief Executive Officer KEITH RICHARDS

“The East River Run Route in Manhattan is perfect at sunset!” —D.S

Publicher, Chief Revenue Officer

DANA SCULLY

Copy Chief RONDA ROUSEY Research Director EMMA GREENE-GELLER

VP & Executive Director VINCE VALOIS ADVERTISING NEW YORK EDITORIAL Art Director GILLIAN ANDERSON Fashion Director FOX MULDER Fashion Editor RICHARD CASTLE Art Associate BILL SCULLY Writers DAVID DUCHOVNY, JANNIFER LAWRENCE, STANA KATIC, NATHAN FILLION, JAVIER ESPOSITO, KEVIN RYAN Colaborators MARIA SHARAPOVA, LANCE NEIL, GAIL MORRIS Photo Director NATASHA ROMANOFF Photo Editor JENNIFER ANISTON Associate Photo Editor MARK RUFALLO Photographers & Artists NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, RUPERT GRINT, MARTIN FREEMAN, ARTHUR DENT, DEAN WINCHESTER, JENSEN ACKLES Copy Chief RONDA ROUSEY Research Director EMMA GREENE-GELLER

“My own backyard, for sure!” —F.I.

Assistant Production Manager WALTER SKINNER Senior Software Engineer SAMUEL WINCHESTER Special Projects Associate JON MONTGOMERY Editorial Business Assistant FRANK IERO Assistant to Editor in Chief GERARD WAY Senior Digital Art Director DIANA FOWLEY Head of Digital URSULA BUFFAY Production Manager WALTER SKINNER Senior Software Engineer SAMUEL WINCHESTER Special Projects Associate JON MONTGOMERY Editorial Business Assistant FRANK IERO Assistant to Editor in Chief GERARD WAY Assistant to Digital Art Director DIANA FOWLEY Assistant to Head of Digital URSULA BUFFAY Photo Director NATASHA ROMANOFF Photo Editor JENNIFER ANISTON Associate Photo Editor MARK RUFALLO

Photographers & Artists NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, RUPERT GRINT, MARTIN FREEMAN, ARTHUR DENT, DEAN WINCHESTER, JENSEN ACKLES

Executive Director & Finance MELISSA SCULLY Executive Director BRUCE WAYNE Account Director JARED LETO Associate Planning Director SHANNON LETO Business Manager MARTHA RODGERS Advertising Coordinator ALEXIS CASTLE Executive Director & Finance MELISSA SCULLY Executive Director BRUCE WAYNE Account Director JARED LETO Associate Planning Director SHANNON LETO Business Manager MARTHA RODGERS Advertising Coordinator ALEXIS CASTLE Sales Assistants FOX MULDER, KATHERINE BECKETT, STANA KATIC, NATHAN FILLION, JAVIER ESPOSITO Artistic Director

KATHERINE BECKET

Executive Director & Finance MELISSA SCULLY Executive Director BRUCE WAYNE Account Director JARED LETO Associate Planning Director SHANNON LETO Business Manager MARTHA RODGERS Advertising Coordinator ALEXIS CASTLE INTEGRATED MARKETING & CREATIVE SERVICES Assistant Production Manager WALTER SKINNER Senior Software Engineer SAMUEL WINCHESTER Special Projects Associate JON MONTGOMERY Editorial Business Assistant FRANK IERO Assistant to Editor in Chief GERARD WAY Senior Digital Art Director DIANA FOWLEY VOLUME 01, ISSUE 01. Copyright 2015 No part of Vélo Magazine by Rachel Green may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher. Vélo Magazine’s liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. Vélo Magazine, 23 Lexingnton Ave New York, NY 10010 T: 212-76-3030

PUBLISHED BY CONDÉ NAST Chairman Chief Executive Officer President Chief Financial Officer Chief Marketing Officer & President-Condé Nast Media Group Chief Administrative Officer EVP-Chief Digital Officer EVP-Consumer Marketing EVP-Human Resources

WAGNER MOURA ROBERT DOWNEY, JR. TONY STARK JASON BATEMAN EMMA WATSON RON WEASLEY HARRY POTTER IBN SINA CAMERON DIAZ

Condé Nast is a global media company producing premium content for more than 263 million consumers in 30 markets. www.condenast.com www.velomagazine.com

“I love riding around Skyland Mountain at night. It’s also a great place to stargaze.” —F.M.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

/editor’s letter

fresh

start B

ON THE COVER US $ 5.00 EU $ 4.50 AUS $ 5.50 RUS $ 12.00 R$ 16.40 ARG $ 20.00 CL $ 19.00 PR $ 23.00 MEX $ 15.00 SA $ 8.00

The magazine for the bike enthusiast

july 2015

DI S

TH C E

KE BI

THE SCENIC

FRANCE BE READY FOR SUMMER!

Sanditi vellor Dionseq uidunti Ratatur seque plab int.Illanda con endi audam consecaecae

iking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Our biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops— the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic. Michael Wissell, a competitive racer with Back Bay Cycling, lives in Boston, a place where the average temperature for winter hovers just around freezing. Some winters (like, say, this one), 32-degree days may actually be the warm spells. As a hardy New Englander, harsh winters don’t keep him from training. But they used to hurt him during

spring races in more southern locales, where he would suddenly be going 100 percent in 85-degree weather with 100 percent humidity. It was 90 degrees with high humidity, and Drew [his main competitor], being from Florida, was like ‘Woo-hoo!’ I was fine for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, bit by bit, my body started to shut down.” This wasn’t the first time the New England resident had succumbed while racing under the scorching sun. The same thing had happened in a previous race in Massachusetts the lead to keep from vomiting.

Miranda Priestly Editor-in-Chief Follow me at @mpriestly

vélo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

/contributors illustration Steve Martin

DANA SCULLY Manhattan is perfect at sunset biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops— the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Follow me at @dscully

RICHARD CASTLE Manhattan is perfect at sunset biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops— the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Follow me at @castle

MARTHA RODGERS Manhattan is perfect at sunset biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. Follow me at @mrodgers

FRANK IERO Manhattan is perfect at sunset biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. Follow me at @fiero

vélo

ALEXIA CHUNG The East River Run Route in Manhattan is perfect at sunset biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Follow me at @chunga

MICHAEL JORDAN The East River Run Route in Manhattan is perfect at sunset biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Follow me at @mjordan

june 2015

vĂŠlo

/from the readers

FIRST LETTER Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, so your furry partner can be confortable and enjoy the ride. Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment. — Chandler Bing, Washington, D.C.

BIKES OF THE FUTURE

FAVORITE ROUTES

HELLO!

NEXT ISSUE

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, so your furry partner can be confortable and enjoy the entire ride.

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, so your furry partner can be confortable and enjoy the entire ride. Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, so your furry partner can be confortable and enjoy the entire ride.

— Chandler Bing, Washington, D.C.

OUR ATHLETES Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, enjoy the entire ride. — Chandler Bing, Washington, D.C.

— Chandler Bing, Washington, D.C.

vélo

— Chandler Bing, Washington, D.C.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Send your questions to Word From You, c/o Letters Department, Vélo Magazine, 23 Lexingnton Ave, New York, NY 10010, or to wordfromyou@velomagazine. com. Please include full name and address. Letters become property of Vélo Magazine Inc. and can be published, broadcast, edited, or or used in any of its media.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

/calendar

JULY Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

independence day

Of course! Just make sure that

21 Of course! Just make sure that

Of course! Just make sure that

TOUR DE FRANCE 2015 The Steel Café brings to Paris a new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel Café seems to be at the right spot for business.

Of course!

AUGUST Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 2

Of course! Just make sure that

Of course!

Of course! Just make sure that

8 15

Of course! Just make sure that

24 30

25 31

Of course! Just make sure that

29 Of course! Just make sure that

vélo

BKBS BIKE WEEK 2015 The Steel Café brings to Paris a new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel Café seems to be at the right spot for business.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

FEATURES

MEET THE MAKERS by Steve Martin

The Steel CafĂŠ brings to Paris a new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel CafĂŠ seems to be at the right spot for business. p.82

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, so your furry partner can be confortable and enjoy the entire ride.

KHARDUNGLA by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps.

A NEW BREED OF COFFEE SHOP by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

AROUND THE WORLD

THE SCENIC FRANCE by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along.

THE 20 MOST BIKE FRIENDLY CITIES ON THE PLANET by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you.

THE BIKE CULTURE

5 AWESOME FATHER’S DAY IDEAS FOR DADS WHO RIDE by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along.

BE READY FOR SUMMER by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you.

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CYCLING LINGO by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment.

CHECK THIS OUT! by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment.

INSIDER TRAINING

by Steve Martin

YOGA FOR CYCLISTS by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along.

DISCECTING THE BIKE Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along.

THE KING OF PAIN by Steve Martin

HEALTHY 5MIN SNACKS

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you.

by Steve Martin

WORD FROM YOU by Steve Martin

SADDLE SORE? by Steve Martin

Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment.

IN EVERY ISSUE

Editor’s Letter Contributors From the readers Photo of the month

6 8 10 92

june 2015

vĂŠlo

june 2015

jul/15

Around the World

issue #1

Your definitive guide to the giant spinning wheel. 18/ the scenic france

june 2015

vĂŠlo

22/ the 20 most bike friendly cities on the planet

around the world / bicycle routes

the scenic

France

We handpick the most scenic biking routes— from the Alps to the French countryside. Can you already feel the wind in your hair? by Steve Martin

Start! A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation.

Pedal! A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation.

Enjoy!

ur biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops— the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Our biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al

biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Our biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect.

vélo

A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation.

Bicycle tour map

Follow these three easy steps for the time of your life.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

around the world / bicycle routes

What to bring Biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco.

1. Water bottle

2. Fit watch

3. UV blocking sun glasses

Biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Our biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic. Michael Wissell, a competitive racer with Back Bay Cycling, lives in Boston, a place where the average temperature for winter hovers just around freezing. Some winters (like, say, this one), 32-degree days may actually be the warm spells. As a hardy New Englander, harsh winters don’t keep him from training. But they used to hurt him during spring races in more southern locales, where he would suddenly be going 100 percent in 85-degree weather with 100 percent humidity. It was 90 degrees with high humidity, and Drew [his main competitor], being from Florida, was like ‘Woo-hoo!’ I was fine for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, bit by bit, my body started to shut down.” This wasn’t the first time the New England resident had succumbed while racing under the scorching sun. The same thing had happened in a previous race in Massachusetts— again with high temps and high humidity—where he had dropped out of the lead to keep from vomiting. Biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic, the best spot to pick wild blueberries. A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation. Our biking trip leaders know the least trafficked cycling routes and also the most terrific stops—the trattoria where you can lunch al

vélo

fresco, the olive orchard perfect for a picnic. Michael Wissell, a competitive racer with Back Bay Cycling, lives in Boston, a place where the average temperature for winter hovers just around freezing. Some winters (like, say, this one), 32-degree days may actually be the warm spells. As a

Biking trip leaders hardy New Englander, harsh winters know the least don’t keep him from training. But trafficked. they used to hurt him during spring races in more southern locales, where he would suddenly be going 100 percent in 85-degree weather with 100 percent humidity. It was 90 degrees with high humidity, and Drew [his main competitor], being from Florida, was like ‘Woo-hoo!’ I was fine for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, bit by bit, my body started to shut down.” This wasn’t the Which bike first time the New England route w o u resident had succumbed ld you like to see in while racing under the our next e dition scorching sun. ?

let us

gears.c ow at: om/vo te

june 2015

vĂŠlo

around the world / bicycle routes

the 20 most

bike friendly

cities on the planet With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves that it can offer results. by Steve Martin infography Jean Caruso

he bicycle makes

sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent

3 24

vĂŠlo vĂŠlo

move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from Denmark tell us that for every kilometer cycled, society enjoys a net profit of 23 cents, whereas for every kilometer driven by car we suffer a net loss of 16 cents. Many cities get this. Many donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. And many more are somewhere in between, wavering on how much to invest,

june 2015 june 2015

june 2015

vĂŠlo

around the world / bicycle routes

DID YOU KNOW?

COPENHAGEN the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from Denmark tell us that

AMSTERDAM the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle

UTRECHT the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from Denmark tell us that

STRASBOURG the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic,

EINDHOVEN the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from

MALMÖ the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle

vélo

NEW YORK CITY has a number of projects to reshape the city and include the bikes in their citizen’s lifes. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent

Sanditi vellor Dionseq uidunti Ratatur seque plab int.Illanda con endi audam consecaecae doluptaquat

june 2015

vĂŠlo

around the world / bicycle routes

NANTES the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from Denmark tell us that

BORDEAUX the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle

ANTWERP the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from Denmark tell us that

SEVILLE the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic,

vĂŠlo

BARCELONA the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from

BERLIN the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle

LJUBLJANA the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from Denmark tell us that

BUENOS AIRES the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic,

june 2015

vĂŠlo

around the world / bicycle routes

OTHER PROJECTS IN THE US

DUBLIN the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic,

VIENNA the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic,

PARIS the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the

MINNEAPOLIS the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent

HAMBURG the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic, environmental, and health benefits of urban cycling. Studies from

MONTREAL the bicycle makes sense in cities. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of

vĂŠlo

MINNESSOTA is also starting to open its eyes to the idea of bikes as transportation. Numbers of projects to reshape the city and include the bikes in their citizenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifes. With rising urbanization, our cities need modern mobility solutions, and moving around on two wheels proves time and again that it can offer results. Investment in bicycle infrastructure is a modern and intelligent move. Plenty of research shows the social, economic,

WANTING SOME BIKE PROJECTS FOR YOUR HOMETOWN? Sign the petition created by Kevin Bacon asking for more bike related projects in the United States. Find it at: www.petiotion.com

june 2015

vĂŠlo

june 2015

jul/15

The Bike Culture

issue #1

No one wants to be Fred and Wilma forever.

34/ be ready for summer 38/ check this out!

the scenic

France A Backroads bike tour is a dream vacation.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

the bike culture / community

AWESOME FATHER’S DAY IDEAS for Dads Who Ride

No need to guess at what to do with your cyclist dad this year—we’ve gathered a few excellent options to help you celebrate in style. by Steve Martin

this June 21 with a gift that really speaks to his cycling passion. Here are a few of our favorites. The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with double-pass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected by the filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce the joint. elebrate your dad

1. Go outside! The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with doublepass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding

filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected by the filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce the joint.

2. Plan routes together The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with doublepass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected by the filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce the joint.

3. Start a competition The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with doublepass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves

vélo

strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with double-pass welding, a timeconsuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity

4. Picnic at the park The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with doublepass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce the joint.

5. Catch up! The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with doublepass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves

june 2015

vĂŠlo

BE READY FOR

SUMMER!

by Steve Martin

the bike culture / what to wear

We guide you through the do’s and dont’s of the warmest of seasons. Wondering what have the brands been preparing for you? We got it!

2 5

2. Amasa Short T-Shirt

3. Bartlet Thighs

4. Kask Bambino Helmet

vélo

5. Trail Gloves

6. Diadora Phantom

june 2015

vĂŠlo

the bike culture / variety

the ULTIMATE

GUIDE

to CYCLING LINGO

Well, if you can’t tell a sprocket from a Schrader it’s time for a quick cycling lingo lesson. Read on to get ready in no time. by Steve Martin illustration Jean Caruso

Hat’S tHe HardeSt part about learning how to cycle? The pavement (talk about road rash!). Well, if you can’t tell a sprocket from a Schrader, or if you call all things biking-related “whatchamacallits,” it’s time for a quick cycling lingo lesson. Read on to get ready for the Tour de France in no time.

THE BASICS Steed: Cycling without a steed is like horseback riding without a horse. While this steed, or bicycle, doesn’t neigh, it does roll from point A to point B with a little push from the legs. Road bike: Made of carbon fiber, titanium, steel, or aluminum, road bikes come in a range of shapes and sizes to fit the athletic needs and body of the rider. Unlike your average bicycle, a road bike is more lightweight, has extra gear combinations, and features sports tires that are narrow, inflated at highpressures, and smooth.

Beater bike: Usually a retired steed that’s seen better days, a beater bike, also called a clunker, is still capable of pulling its weight (and the rider’s weight, too!). Cyclists go for a beater bike on the days their devil-may-care attitude can’t be bothered by the technicality of a true road bike.

THE PLAYERS Roadie: A roadie, or road geek, is a devoted road cyclist. Roadies know what’s up in the cycling world and could probably teach a rookie biker a thing or two about steeds and riding techniques. Befriend a roadie if you can! Chasers: Just like a swig of soda after booze, chasers are the cycling gogetters. These riders crank away to pass riders ahead. Clydesdale: Larger riders are affectionately nicknamed Clydesdales, a classification reserved for riders that are 200 pounds or more. Fred and Doris: Cycling newbies are nicknamed “Fred” and “Doris” by

vélo

the more serious old-timers. (New roadies, keep reading to sound like seasoned pros in no time!)

THE GEAR Look: One of the two major clipless pedal styles, Look pedals require Look shoe cleats, which protrude from the sole of the cycling shoe. Be prepared to waddle like a duck after dismounting from the steed. SPD: Unlike Looks, cleats of an SPD, or Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, are built inside a recess in the shoe’s sole and allow for steadier walking. Brain bucket: Cover your cranium. Mind your mind. Don’t neglect your noggin. However it’s said, make sure to wear a cycling hard hat — the helmet is a cyclist’s most important piece of gear! [3] So don’t be that newbie cyclist without a brain bucket — we’re looking at you, Fred.

WANTING TO LEARN MORE? www.bikewiki.com

june 2015

vĂŠlo

the bike culture / what’s new?

CHECK

THIS

François Hollande’s exhibition at MoMA. Aug. 1-31.

OUT! Wanna stay tunned? Here are our picks for this summer so you won’t miss a thing.

by Steve Martin

Stunning bicyle photos from @bikephotos

App of the week on the App Store, Strava lets you record your routes.

Wonders of the Body exhibition at the Von Dutch Gallery. Aug 14-31. Can’t miss it!

Fashion and cycling in the same place? @katetlmonde has it all!

Bike maker Mike Baker shows off his skills at @mikebaker

The MovaMais app turns your exercises into benefits. Still need a reason to work out?

Featuring on this month’s cover is artist Mario Batalha with his series of illustrations especially made for the 2015’s Tour de France. Follow him at @mbatalha to keep up with his work.

Check out italian graphic designer Rico Fontana’s series of bike drawings at @ricofontana

vélo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

june 2015

jul/15

Training

issue #1

The impulse you need to push foward 42/ yoga for cyclists 44/ healthy 5min snacks 46/ saddle sore?

june 2015

vĂŠlo

training / fitness

YOGA

FOR CYCLISTS

These simple poses will help stretch your muscles and focus your breath for a better ride. by Steve Martin Cat-Cow

Wind-tunnel tested, Team Sky approved—it combines safety, aerodynamics.

Reclining Bound Angle

Wind-tunnel tested, Team Sky approved—it combines safety, aerodynamics.

Bridge

Camel

Wind-tunnel tested, Team Sky approved—it combines safety, aerodynamics.

Hero-Reclining Hero

Wind-tunnel tested, Team Sky approved—it combines safety, aerodynamics.

Pidgeon Wind-tunnel tested, Team Sky approved—it combines safety, aerodynamics.

vélo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

training / fitness

HEALTHY

5MIN SNACKS These simple poses will help stretch your muscles and focus your breath for a better ride.

WHOLE WHEAT CHOCOLATE COOKIE

by Steve Martin

GARDEN SALAD GREEK YOGURT PARFAIT 1 box wild strawberry gelatin 1 c. each strawberries 2 c. prepared vanilla puddingfor steadier walking. Prepare gelatin in a 2-cup glass measure as box directs. Meanwhile, stem and hull 1/2 cup strawberries; cut in small pieces. Add gelatin and gently stir with a skewer to incorporate berries so some are suspended in the gelatin (don’t overstir).

1 box wild strawberry gelatin 1 c. each strawberries 2 c. prepared vanilla puddingfor steadier walking. Prepare gelatin in a 2-cup glass measure as box directs.

CASTANHA-DE-CAJU 1 box wild strawberry gelatin 1 c. each strawberries 2 c. prepared vanilla puddingfor steadier walking.

Meanwhile, stem and hull 1/2 cup strawberries; cut in small pieces.

Prepare gelatin in a 2-cup glass measure as box directs.

1 box wild strawberry gelatin 1 c. each strawberries 2 c. prepared vanilla puddingfor steadier walking. Prepare gelatin in a 2-cup glass measure as box directs. Meanwhile, stem and hull 1/2 cup strawberries; cut in small pieces. Add gelatin and gently stir with a skewer to incorporate berries so some are suspended in the gelatin (don’t overstir).

Add gelatin and gently stir with a skewer to incorporate berries so some are suspended in the gelatin (don’t overstir).

Meanwhile, stem and hull 1/2 cup strawberries; cut in small pieces. Add gelatin and gently

3 46

vélo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

training / health

SADDLE SORE? We give you the 6 most common cycling injuries. by Steve Martin

the cycling sport, whether it’s from a crash, overtraining or even from poor bike fit. It’s one of the main reasons why riding a bike can be a challenging activity. Here is a list of the six that are most common and what you can do to avoid them. NJury IS Part oF

1. ACHILLES TENTONITES

Back off your training and use ice to calm down the inflammation. Ibuprofen is also recommended for their anti-inflammatory properties. But for Ibuprofen to work, it must be present in your system for consecutive days. Taking it only when you have pain will not help with the inflammation.

2. PATELLAR TENDONITIS

Try variation in your pedal cadence. While every cyclist has their preference, breaking up your training by pedaling in a high cadence (90120 revolutions per minute) can

help prevent injury if you do most of your riding in big gears. Increasing pedal cadence will develop your cardiovascular system too.

3. BROKEN VLAVICLE OR

SCAPHOID While a broken bone can’t always be avoided, the general tip when falling off your bike is to continue to hold onto the handlebars. This lets your entire body absorb the blow to the ground rather than just two bones in your outstretched arm. Remembering this tip might help to keep your hands on the bars where they belong, even during a spill.

4. SADDLE SORES Lowering your saddle can prevent less side-to-side motion of the pelvis, which can cause excessive friction against the seat. If you’ve had a bike fit and your seat is at its proper height, using a chamois cream can help to ease the discomfort of your skin rubbing against the saddle, particularly if you move around on the seat a lot during long rides. 5. LOWER BACK PAIN A good core-strengthening regimen should be part of every cyclist’s

vélo

routine, particularly in the off-season when less time training is spent on the bike. Cycling often over looks core muscles like the gluteus medius, the transverse abdominus and other smaller muscles surrounding the pelvis. This lets your entire body absorb the blow to the ground rather than just two bones in your outstretched arm.

6. NECK PAIN If your bike doesn’t fit you well, that will need to be addressed first. Shortening the stem and moving your seat forward will put you in a more upright position that might be more comfortable and allow for your cervical vertebrae to be in a more neutral position instead of full extension. However, it is probably a good idea to address these changes with a bike-fitting expert, since making major changes in position can lead to other unwanted injuries.

Check out our collection of home remedies you can craft at home at: velo.com/health

june 2015

vĂŠlo

june 2015

jul/15

Insider

issue #1

Tips and insights from the crew 50/ discecting the bike 54/ the king of pain 56/ word from you

june 2015

vĂŠlo

insider / pro tips

THE BIKE

discecting

It comes a time when one bicycle just isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough. We walk you through the steps to have in mind before you go shopping fo a new one. by Steve Martin

he legendary Eddy Merckx won 525 races in his pro career. And it seems as though his bike brand has about that many new models coming for 2016. Although the company hinted at the extent of the new line, it only released details about two models: the affordable Blockhaus67 aluminum road bike and a companion womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version, the Montreal74.

vĂŠlo

The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with doublepass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected by the filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce the joint.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

insider / pro tips

KNOW THE RIGHT BIKE FOR YOU The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with double-pass welding, a time-consuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected.filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce.

The bike The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections.

legendary Eddy Merckx won 525 races in his pro career. And it seems as though his bike brand has about that many new models coming for 2016. Although the company hinted at the extent of the new line, it only released details about two models: the affordable Blockhaus67 aluminum road bike and a companion womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version, the Montreal74. The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with double-pass welding, a timeconsuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected by the filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to

the primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Both bikes use a 6069 aluminum frame with double-pass welding, a timeconsuming process that Merckx says improves strength and joint integrity. In the first pass, welders join the two mitered tubes with minimal welding filler rod, so the tubes are welded to each other instead of connected by the filler material. The second weld lays down additional filler material to reinforce the joint. The legendary Eddy Merckx won 525 races in his pro career. And it seems as though his bike brand has about that many new models coming for 2016. Although the company hinted at the extent of the new line, it only released details about two models: the affordable Blockhaus67.

vĂŠlo

ASK OUR EXPERTS ONLINE www.velo/ask.com

The primary differences between the two are geometry and some minor parts selections. Down additional filler material.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

insider / Q&A

THE KING OF

PAIN

Lance Armstrong Before I was like, That’s it, you wrote that headline and I’m not going to talk to you again.

He’s not getting paid. He’s 37 years old. So why is Lance Armstrong racing again? Because he still has something to prove—and nothing else hurts so good. by Steve Martin

oday is Veterans day,

November 11, and we’re at Armstrong’s home in Austin, Texas. I arrived here wondering how the past three years had affected his welldocumented competitive drive. Over this period, the world had watched as Athlete Lance a cancer-surviving, competition-squashing seven-time Tour de France champion had been transformed quite publicly into Celebrity Lance, a slightly heavier and more amicable jock who turned in impressive sub-three-hour marathons but was also a fixture in the tabloids, thanks to a string of high-profile girlfriends and regular late-night partying and/or shirtless jogging with fellow Texan Matthew McConaughey. When the ride ended, he’d earned more than just a sip of the good life. But now he’s older. It’s hard to imagine the 37-year-old legend not only beating the clock.

DIADORA LONG SLEEVE Lance’s go to shirt for sun protection. Buy it: www.bikegear.com

ARGON 18 Lance’s pick for this year’s Tour de France. Check out all of their other models at: www.argonbikes.com

ON THE PLAYLIST Imagine Dragons’new album, Night Visions.

vélo

VÉLO: Are you too mellow now to win the “Mellow Johnny”? ARMSTRONG: I think I’m mellower than I was in those years, ‘99 to ‘05, but I think it’s a different kind of mellow. I still pay attention to what’s being said about me, but I don’t hold that stuff inside like I did then. What kind of stuff? Before I was like, That’s it, you wrote that headline and I’m not going to talk to you again. I wouldn’t do that now. I’d sit down and talk to that person and tell them that was a stupid headline, a shitty headline, and why I think that. If at the end of it all we just have to agree to disagree, then that’s fine.

I still pay attention to what’s being said about me, but I don’t hold that stuff inside like I did then. But some of what you’re talking about used to motivate you. It was fuel. Yeah, but my mind is fresher and tougher and more motivated now. From ‘99 to 2001, my mind was in a really tough space. It was a fighting space. And that dipped a little at the end [of my career]. But I could still find things to motivate myself. And I’ll find little things this time. There are always little tidbits. You mean bulletin-board material. Well, I don’t have a bulletin board, but I do have a good memory. And that’s not a threat. It’s just a fact. Describe the call when you told your coach, Johan Bruyneel, you were coming back. [Laughs] He thought I was kidding. He said, “Call in tomorrow when you’re not drunk.” He didn’t see it coming.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

insider / word from you

Which is the best bike for , , . the road? — ross geller neW york ny

A: The Specialized Tarmac Mid Compact features the same frame that has won the Tour of Flanders, but with lower grade Shimano components to bring the cost down—way down. Still, it’s a fast bike made for racing that will speed you on to anything from a victory sprint to the county line to your next crit win.

Q: What is the correct way to adjust a bike saddle? — Robert Singer, Sioux Falls, SD.

A: To adjust and install a saddle on your bike you have to have in mind the type of seat you want installed. It’s a fairly simple process that can be perfomed at home with no need of professional

Q: Is it safe to bring my pet for a ride? — Chandler Bing, Washington, D.C.

A: Of course! Just make sure that when you pet is tagging along you have the proper equipment, like a pet basket with secure straps, so your furry partner can be confortable and enjoy the entire ride.

$1,750, specialized.com

assistence. To learn how to easily install a saddle take a look at the diagram we prepared for you and follow these 3 steps:

Q: How can I tell if I’m wearing my helmet right? — Phoebe Buffay, Kent, IL.

1. Losen the bolts. 2. Disengage the top piece so the seat can move freely.

2 1

3. Adjust the seat.

Q: How many people can fit in a tandem bike ?

— Joey Tribianni, Miami, FL.

A: According to the Guiness Book of World Records, you can fit 52.

vélo

A: Helmets should be inspected before a ride. Check the buckles to ensure a safe fit, and make sure the helmet is properly fitted. Wear the helmet flat on the head, not tilted back on an angle.

WE WANT A WORD FROM YOU! Send your questions to Word From You, c/o Letters Department, Vélo Magazine, 23 Lexingnton Ave, New York, NY 10010, or to wordfromyou@velomagazine.com. Please include full name and address. Letters become property of Vélo Magazine Inc. and can be published, broadcast, edited, or otherwise used in any of its media.

june 2015

vĂŠlo

meet the

MAKERS We gathered the best of the best bicycle craftsmen to show you what happens behind the wheel. by Steve Martin

photography Jean Caruso

vĂŠlo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

Mike Baker Bikes R Us

it aut hit la sequi di doluptatum re non nectem voluptatiosa parum et eos molorioreius at mo eritatur, corepe disi blaceatem. Ita dolore volor alit, etur sam aut eum veris aliquae. Ma dolecup tamusdae re veniam essequo eror rem in re, quaeste nis re, ut audaeprem cum sa voluptatur aut ut quos asperum evenisci net aceperspe et optatus. Tem quis experrunt di beaqui int autae voloreius, ut venim iuntur? Henet est lantureria quo tempos atempos el is eicti blacient aut hil ma plis aborepr atatiis quiaspel iscim in cullor alibusam veniante vernatent rentibus vellaut ut fuga. Tur maio tendam quunt, sent, sequaec tatinctatet, odit volecta qui aperem aped qui digentiam velenem etur sam voluptis nobita doluptas et assumque eleserum que qui consequas natiunt veratur sero voluptatem in con cullis dolupture volestiuntem exeri to del is mi, officiatur? Qui denectotatis adit arunt pa voluptur ametur mil min re nimped etus. As maximil ipsum dolupta aut quae.

vĂŠlo

Visiththope S ! The Bikes R Us shop has two different addresses in New York. Feel free to visit them all! E 23 Hudson St. New York, NY. W 130 Maiden St. New York, NY.

june 2015

“There’s a great business scene here. There’s a lot of people starting cool things”

june 2015

vélo

Alfredo Rossi Tutta VelocitĂ

Dit aut hit la sequi di doluptatum re non nectem voluptatiosa parum et eos molorioreius at mo eritatur, corepe disi blaceatem. Ita dolore volor alit, etur sam aut eum veris aliquae. Ma dolecup tamusdae re veniam essequo eror rem in re, quaeste nis re, ut audaeprem cum sa voluptatur aut ut quos asperum evenisci net aceperspe et optatus. Tem quis experrunt di beaqui int autae voloreius, ut venim iuntur? Henet est lantureria quo tempos atempos el is eicti blacient aut hil ma plis aborepr atatiis quiaspel iscim in cullor alibusam veniante vernatent rentibus vellaut ut fuga. Tur maio tendam quunt, sent, sequaec tatinctatet, odit volecta qui aperem aped qui digentiam velenem etur sam voluptis nobita doluptas et assumque eleserum que qui consequas natiunt veratur sero voluptatem in con cullis dolupture volestiuntem exeri to del is mi, officiatur? Qui denectotatis adit arunt pa voluptur ametur mil min re nimped etus. As maximil ipsum dolupta aut quae. Uciendem et ad ut et et doles et volo blam il ipsaepro blaborpRatibeatem. Nem dusdae nonsequi volentium arunt iumquae debis ea sinctor rehendiorat adit lab inis sitae latibero

june 2015

“I guess it may be a bit audacious” Dit aut hit la sequi di doluptatum re non nectem voluptatiosa parum et eos molorioreius at mo eritatur, corepe disi blaceatem. Ita dolore volor alit, etur sam aut eum veris aliquae. Ma dolecup tamusdae re veniam essequo eror rem in re, quaeste nis re, ut audaeprem cum sa voluptatur aut ut quos asperum evenisci net aceperspe et optatus. Tem quis experrunt di beaqui int autae voloreius, ut venim iuntur? Henet est lantureria quo tempos atempos el is eicti blacient aut hil

Visiththope S ! The Tutta Velocità shop has two different addresses in New York. Feel free to visit them all! E 23 Hudson St. New York, NY. W 130 Maiden St. New York, NY.

1. Sanditi vellor dionseq uidunti 2. Sanditi vellor dionseq uidunti

vélo

vĂŠlo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

Visiththope S ! The Tutta VelocitĂ shop has two different addresses in New York. Feel free to visit them all! E 23 Hudson St. New York, NY. W 130 Maiden St. New York, NY.

vĂŠlo

june 2015

Ryan & Stephen Weiss Wheels

â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are people here who know how to do thatâ&#x20AC;? Dit aut hit la sequi di doluptatum re non nectem voluptatiosa parum et eos molorioreius at mo eritatur, corepe disi blaceatem. Ita dolore volor alit, etur sam aut eum veris aliquae. Ma dolecup tamusdae re veniam essequo eror rem in re, quaeste nis re, ut audaeprem cum sa voluptatur aut ut quos asperum evenisci

Sanditi vellor dionseq uidunti

A L G N U D R A H K

Two guys and their bikes in a journey to the top of the world. by Steve Martin photography Jean Caruso

Sanditi vellor Dionseq uidunti Ratatur seque plab int.Illanda con endi audam consecaecae doluptaquat evelendebit quat resequaest asitati orehenet essimi, in cus quam vel explace ruptaeperi rehenda atur? Culpa voluptae laut laborecus aute aut fuga. Et

he truth is when you begin riding bikes you are constantly bombarded with new challenges – your first mountain, your first puncture or even the first time you get lost. Like anything though, after a certain period of time these challenges become less stimulating. You can always push yourself harder or ride further but nothing will ever compare to that feeling when you first reached the summit of that illusive mountain. For us, this adventure

was about chasing that feeling. We wanted to do something so far out of our comfort zone that there was a possibility that we wouldn’t even make it. To find a challenge befitting this criterion we travelled half way across the world to the northern most pocket of India to ride from Manali to Khardung La; a Himalayan road made famous by it’s altitude and it’s precarious nature. Claimed by many to be the highest and most dangerous motorable road in the world, the

vélo

515km stretch of road traverses numerous peaks above 5,000 metres and rarely dips below 3,800 metres making it one of the World’s most challenging cycling adventures. Built over 100 years ago by the Indian Army, the road is only open during the summer months, yet even in this period is prone to constant landslides and motor vehicle accidents. During the remaining 8 months of the year the road is blocked by snow and subject to constant avalanches.

june 2015

Admittedly, it doesn’t come across as the perfect cycling destination but that was all part of the allure. Like all cyclists, there is something hardwired into our brain that seeks out risk and adventure. For two mediocre cyclists nearly carrying our own weight in filming equipment this was easily the most difficult ride either of us had ever undertaken – and to make things more interesting we had only 8 days to do it. Early last year Dave showed me a film about a couple of motorcyclists on their epic journey through India to the highest road in the world. “We have to do this on mountain bikes” he told me with that crazy tone in his voice that I have come to know all too well. It’s somewhere between sarcasm and complete seriousness – as if he’s tempting you to take it seriously, but well aware of the absurdity of the idea. I watched the film and immediately became absorbed by the imagery. I had never seen anything like it. Giant mountains as far as the eye can see and cliff-side paths that make the best roads back home look benign in comparison. It quickly became an obsession for both of us. While it looked like a beautiful (and challenging) journey on a motorbike,

the idea of attempting this same passage on a bicycle without any mechanical assistance seemed so much more appealing and somewhat fitting in this part of the world. I had soon mapped out the proposed route from Manali to Khardung La on my laptop to see if it

metres above sea level. To put this into context neither Dave, nor myself had ever ridden above 2,000 metres and now we were considering climbing mountains that didn’t even begin until we were at approximately twice this altitude. It soon became obvious that this was going to

This was easily the most difficult ride either of us had ever undertaken was even possible. 515 kilometres over what looked like 5 distinguishable mountain passes didn’t seem completely out of the question. My eyes then fell upon the elevation numbers. Some of these climbs were more than 40 kilometres long but what I saw next was much worse. Most of the climbs didn’t begin until 3,500

be a huge commitment that would only be possible after months of planning and some serious kilometres on the bike. A couple of months later I stumbled across an article about a local airline launching flights to India at prices that even we could afford. I had almost forgotten about our optimistic plan to ride and film the highest road in the

world but this article got me thinking once again. The only problem was that the flights were in 5 weeks’ time and we hadn’t touched our bikes for the last two months. I jumped straight on the phone to Dave and after 2-3 minutes of convincing each other that it would be a fantastic idea our flights were booked. In a matter of weeks, we would be lugging our totally unprepared and out of shape bodies over some of the highest mountain passes in the world. Foolishly neither of us had really considered the intricacies of cycling and filming in India before booking our flights. We calculated the weight of all of our gear and discovered that even without bikes, our luggage would come to a combined total of 45 kilograms. Having already blown the majority of our budget on unanticipated costs like vaccines, visas, insurance and clothing for sub-zero temperatures, there

1. Sanditi vellor dionseq uidunti 2. Sanditi vellor dionseq uidunti

vĂŠlo

june 2015

and finally receiving our Indian visas just days before we were due to depart, we were off to the Himalayas – in a round about kind of way. The flights were cheap but this also meant that there were lengthy stopovers and our point of arrival

I would not recommend this journey to anyone unless you had a week or two to do it comfortably

Sanditi vellor Dionseq uidunti Ratatur seque plab int.

june 2015

wasn’t necessarily close to our final destination at the base of the Himalayas. We were actually flying into Kolkata, which is essentially on the opposite side of the subcontinent to the mountains of Northern India. If we had been organised enough to write down an itinerary it would have looked pretty stupid. In the space of just 4 days we would fly from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur, spend a night trying to sleep on the floor of the airport, get on a ‘connecting’ flight to Kolkata, spend 27 hours on the overnight train to New Delhi, buy two mountain bikes for $500, find a local doctor to get Dave’s final rabies shot and finally catch the overnight bus all the way to Manali in the foothills

of the Himalayas. I would not recommend this journey to anyone unless you had a week or two to do it comfortably. By the time we arrived in New Delhi we hadn’t slept properly for 3 days straight so we were totally unprepared for the chaos that ensued. The famous Poorva Express reached the capital 5 hours late, leaving us with only a couple of hours to buy bikes and get Dave the last of his rabies shots. I thought I had prepared my senses for New Delhi but the city really takes everything to a new level. The aroma of exotic spices and decomposing waste fuses with the fumes of the traffic infested city to create a pungent smell that is completely unique to Delhi. But whilst it’s confronting, the bizarre smells and the general disorder of the city is also strangely exciting. After negating the garbage-strewn streets of old Delhi with our friendly, yet homicidal rickshaw driver, we eventually arrived at a dubious looking bike shop on the outskirts of the city. It wasn’t the friendly local bike shop that I had envisioned, but given the circumstances, we didn’t have any other options. After a series of failed attempts to get two bikes for 25 thousand rupee, I convinced Dave

vélo

1. Sanditi vellor dionseq uidunti

Khardungla Location: Bangladesh, India Distance traveled: 677 km Altitude: 18.585 ft Total travel time: 10 days that we should pretend to walk out in the hope that the manager would chase after us and accept the offer. To his credit he stood his ground and 10 minutes later we awkwardly re-entered the shop and accepted his original deal of 30 thousand rupee for two of the cheapest mountain

vĂŠlo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

Sanditi vellor Dionseq uidunti Ratatur seque plab int.

The backpack: Christopher and Stephen open their backpack for us. Wondering what’s inside? • Map • Water • Backpack • Sleeping bag • Lighter • Flashlight • Bike • Spare tire • Helmet • GoPro • Tripod • Jacket • Sunscreen • Sunglasses • Margaritas • Band-aids • Mosquito repelent • Cereal bars • Energetic • Sense of humour

Curious about what you should bring? Visit: velo.com/trip

big heavy tires that certainly weren’t built for speed or climbing. They were made by a local company called Montra - who according to the shop owner were the ‘number one bike brand in India!’ I doubted the validity of his claim, but given our budget I was happy to ride anything that slightly resembled a mountain bike. he truth is when you begin riding bikes you are constantly bombarded with new challenges – your first mountain, your first puncture or even the first time you get lost. Like anything though, after a certain period of time these challenges become less stimulating. You can always push yourself harder or ride further but nothing will ever compare to that feeling when you first reached the summit of that illusive mountain. For us, this adventure was about chasing that feeling. We wanted to do something so far out of our comfort zone that there was a possibility that we wouldn’t even make it. To find a challenge befitting this criterion we travelled half way across the world to the northern most pocket of India to ride from Manali to Khardung La; a Himalayan road made famous by it’s altitude and it’s precarious

vélo

dangerous nature. Claimed by many to be the highest and most dangerous motorable road in the world, the 515km stretch of road traverses numerous peaks above 5,000 metres and rarely dips below 3,800 metres making it one of the World’s most challenging cycling adventures. Built over 100 years ago by the Indian Army, the road is only open during the summer months, yet even in this period is prone to constant landslides and motor vehicle accidents. During the remaining 8 months of the year the road is blocked by snow and subject to constant avalanches.

During the remaining 8 months of the year the road is blocked by snow and subject to constant avalanches Admittedly, it doesn’t come across as the perfect cycling destination but that was all part of the allure. Like all cyclists, there is something hardwired into our brain that seeks out risk and adventure. For two mediocre cyclists nearly

carrying our own weight in filming equipment this was easily the most difficult ride either of us had ever undertaken – and to make things more interesting we had only 8 days to do it. Early last year Dave showed me a film about a couple of motorcyclists on their epic journey through India to the highest road in the world. “We have to do this on mountain bikes” he told me with that crazy tone in his voice that I have come to know all too well. It’s somewhere between sarcasm and complete seriousness – as if he’s tempting you to take it seriously, but well aware of the absurdity of the idea. I watched the film and immediately became absorbed by the imagery. I had never seen anything like it. Giant mountains as far as the eye can see and cliff-side paths that make the best roads back home look benign in comparison. It quickly became an obsession for both of us. While it looked like a beautiful (and challenging) journey on a motorbike, the idea of attempting this same passage on a bicycle without any mechanical assistance seemed so much more appealing and somewhat fitting in this part of the world. I had soon mapped

june 2015

vĂŠlo

World’s highests motorable passes: Aucanquilcha, Chile: 6,176 m (20,262 ft) Mana Pass, India-China: 5,610 m (18,406 ft) Marsimik La, India 5,582 m (18,314 ft) Semo La, Tibet: 5,565 m (18,258 ft) Sanditi vellor Dionseq uidunti Ratatur seque plab int.Illanda con endi audam consecaecae.

didn’t begin until 3,500 metres above sea level. To put this into context neither Dave, nor myself had ever ridden above 2,000 metres and now we were considering climbing mountains that didn’t even begin until we were at approximately twice this altitude. It soon became obvious that this was going to be a huge commitment that would only be possible after months of planning and some serious kilometres on the bike. A couple of months later I stumbled across an article about a local airline launching flights to India at prices that even we could afford. I had almost forgotten about our optimistic plan to ride and film

the highest road in the world but this article got me thinking once again. The only problem was that the flights were in 5 weeks’ time and we hadn’t touched our bikes for the last two months. I jumped straight on the phone to Dave and after 2-3 minutes of convincing each other that it would be a fantastic idea our flights were booked. Foolishly neither of us had really considered the intricacies of cycling and filming in India before booking our flights.

Asitati orehenet essimi, in cus quam vel explace ruptaeperi rehenda atur? Culpa voluptae laut laborecus aute aut fuga.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Check out all about their journey at: www.northsouth.com

vélo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

A NEW BREED

OF COFFEESHOP Parisians no longer have to look enviously at our range of niche cycling cafes, as Steel opens the city’s first cycling café, Steel Cyclewear & Coffeeshop by Steve Martin photography Jean Caruso

vĂŠlo

june 2015

t’s no longer hard to find good coffee in Paris. Lomi, Ten Belles, CREAM, Holybelly—the list of places to drink impeccable joe happily goes on. For those who have hit up all the traditional cafés, a growing selection of “concept” cafés offer novel spaces in which to savor a cup of java. The newest addition to the Paris café circuit is part caffeine pitstop, part bike gear showroom. Beans from Belleville Brûlerie deliver the kick, while homemade sandwiches, sweets, and granola provide the fuel at this concept store opened by lifestyle cycling magazine Steel. Racks of sleek biking gear and a pair of high-performance two-wheelers on the bare walls give the (rather severely) minimalist concrete-andwood seating area a touch of color. The lovely tangle of sophisticated machines on the bike rack outside attests to the café’s popularity with Paris’ growing cycling scene. Subdued lighting, low music, and unlimited snacks make this café a perfect base camp for all-day work sessions or rainy afternoons spent playing Risk (a shelf in the back is stacked with boardgames). The concept is simple: you pay for time, not espressos. Four euros get you an hour and unlimited coffee, tea, pound cake, pretzels, fruit— whatever’s on the smorgasbord that day. Large wooden tables and gentle lighting make it a great place to get work done; you’re as likely to run into a group of business students discussing their startup as you are to end up sitting next to a jeweler stringing beads. The eclectic atmosphere encourages exchange, but manages to foster concentration at the same time. The coffee itself is nothing to write home about, but the concept is worth trying. The concurrent rise of two seemingly unrelated passions, cycling and coffee culture, seem to have

june 2015

The Steel Café brings to Paris a completly new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel Café seems to be at the right spot for business. Offering its clients the opportunity to sip a cup of coffee while also buying new

bike gear is a sure way to success. 1. You can enjoy a nice plate of pasta while reading the new issue of Steel Magazine. 2. The outdoor space is also great. Sitting under a tree can help you get through the hot days of summer while having

a nice chat about some new bicycle models. 3. Like any parisian café, the Steel Café also serves delicious pastries and french finger foods

vélo

The Steel CafĂŠ brings to Paris a completly new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel CafĂŠ seems to be at the right spot for business. Offering its clients the opportunity to sip a cup of coffee while also buying new bike gear is a sure way to success.

“Steel Cyclewear & Coffee shop sells pioneering brands across cycling clothes and accessories, as well as topnotch coffee” The Steel Café brings to Paris a completly new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel Café seems to be at

Ask for the Café creme (€4). Yummy!

The Steel Café brings to Paris a new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundsment, the Steel Café seems to be at the right spot for business. Offering its clients the opportunity to sip a cup of coffee while buying new bike gear is a sure way to success.

june 2015

vélo

1. You can enjoy a nice plate of pasta while reading the new issue of Steel Magazine. 2. The outdoor space is also great. Sitting under a tree can help you get through the hot days of summer while having a nice chat about some new bicycle models. 3. Like any parisian café, the Steel Café also serves delicious pastries and french finger foods. 4. Offering its clients the opportunity to sip a cup of coffee while also buying new bike gear is a sure way to success. 5. The Steel Café brings to Paris a completly new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundisment, the Steel Café seems to be at the right spot for business.

joined forces in recent years with a selection of uber-hipster coffee shops for cycling enthusiasts popping up all over Europe, from Standert in Berlin to Look Mum No Hands! in London. Despite being the home of the Tour De France, the City of Light has trailed behind on this trend until now, with the recent opening of Steel Cyclewear & Coffeeshop on rue de la Fontaine Au Roi. Run by the team behind the achingly cool Steel Magazine (for the sartorially-aware cyclist, naturally), Steel Cyclewear & Coffee shop sells pioneering brands across cycling clothes and accessories, as well as top-notch coffee from the Belleville Brulerie and a Scandinavian-esque menu of sandwiches, salads and a moreish breakfast muesli. On the Wednesday 13th March they’re holding an opening party, so cycle on down to see what all the fuss is about. Just don’t admit that you took a Vélib’. Benoît Touche presides over his

vélo

eclectic selection of home decor, stationary, and random delightful grown-up toys from behind a small counter where customers are welcome to pull up a stool and stay a while. “If they just want to sit and have a coffee, that’s fine. Or if they’re interested, we can talk about the stories behind the objects that interest them. Steel Cyclewear & Coffeeshop, the newest addition to Paris’ cafe scene. Exactly as the name suggests, it combines cyclewear and coffee under one roof – a place for bike lovers to meet over good coffee, basically. I mean, why not?

steel coffeeshop Add: 58 Rue de la Fontaine au Roi, 75011 Paris Tel: 06 47 58 32 46 Hours: [Tue-Fri] 8:30am-6:30pm [Sat] 9am-7pm Website: shop.steelmagazine.fr Price: €2.5-4/coffee, €2.5-6/pastry

june 2015

/photo of the month

The Steel Café brings to Paris a new concept of coffee shop. In the heart of the 13th Arroundsment, the Steel Café seems to be at the right spot. Offering its clients the opportunity to sip a cup of coffee while buying new bike gear is a sure way to success.

photography Jean Caruso

vélo

june 2015

vĂŠlo

june 2015