Unbreakable Bonds

Closed For Renovations!

2009-11-06T14:33:00.004-05:00

Dear Kryptonite Fans, Loyal Readers, Accidental Visitors,

Thanks for stopping by our Unbreakable-Bonds blog. We're currently closed for renovations...what, is that a collective mumble about it being about time???

You deserve to see something cool and worth the read here, so off we go to do our project. Stop by again soon and look for a new coat of paint, a couple new pictures on the wall, etc. Cheers!

Kryptonite In Another Top 10

2009-07-22T12:19:00.003-04:00

Excuse us while we do a little crowing! Just in time for summer travel season (yes, there's still time despite the fact that Back To School ads have already begun to air) the Kryptonite R4 retractable cable lock received a great plug in a New York Times Frugal Traveler blog. Check it out http://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/21/top-10-travel-gadgets-under-50/

Back to the Future, Antique Chainless Bicycle!

2009-07-16T09:50:00.005-04:00

This is a very cool bit of news that I just found on Bicycle Newswire and decided there was too much good stuff not to share the whole announcement with you....

A lone surviving copy of a bicycle from another era, a chainless 3-speed relic manufactured in early 1900, has been recovered and is being restored; called "The Hill-Climber," it was the first multi-speed bicycle to be produced in America. A bicycle believed to be the first production model in America to employ multiple-speed gear ratios has been found and is being restored to original condition. When found, only the patented gear-changing mechanism was still attached to the rusty frame. A nationwide search for replacement parts and information about the company that produced it has been undertaken.

Before this discovery, the first-known production multi-speed bicycle was marketed under the Columbia brand in 1903. It featured a two-speed "kickback" hub, and was also a chainless bicycle. The story of "The Hill-Climber" has recently been published in a book titled "Restoration." It is available on the Amazon-affiliate website Createspace at https://www.createspace.com/3382245

The inventor of this 3-speed bicycle, Peter J. Scharbach, called it "The Hill-Climber." It was originally produced by Scharbach/Hoerth and Company in San Francisco in 1902. Research shows that the company also tried to produce an early automobile. It is not known how many of these bicycles were sold during its production years from 1902-1904. Chainless bicycles are manufactured today by a few companies, but the product form is not widely known to bicyclists.

The surviving Hill-Climber, a frame with a shaft-drive (like an automobile) instead of a chain, has three bevel gears at the rear wheel, and shift linkage to change speed ratios. It was stored in the basement of a retired dairy farmer outside of Pe Ell, WA, after spending most of its life on his farm junk pile. His father, John K. Muller, and many residents of the area invested in a manufacturing company formed with the inventor in late 1903. Assembly operations were moved from San Francisco to Chicago in early 1904. Mysteriously, all their investment was gone by the end of the year, and the company folded.

A descendant of the inventor was found living in Arizona. His great-grandfather was a blacksmith, inventor and entrepreneur whose patent for the chainless bicycle is still being referenced today. Remnants of the bicycle business are a few surviving photographs taken at a product roll-out event in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, c.1902. An advertising flyer, and other surviving documentation, was found in the possession of relatives of John K. Muller.

The bicycle is scheduled to be on display at the 32nd Annual LeMay Auto Collection show August 29, 2009, near Tacoma, WA. For details go to http://www.lemaymuseum.org

More information about the bicycle, its restoration, and its place in history can be found at http://www.fusionstudios.com/hill-climber.

You Say Commuter, I Say Urbanista

2009-07-13T17:29:00.005-04:00

Well, this weekend, hubby and I got in a bit of riding and it was absolutely great! He's a happy camper riding his new bike, sporting a Kryptonite lock, bien sur...a beautiful Opus urbanista. If you're not familiar with it, check it out...www.opusbike.com. Sorry, can't find 'em too easily in the States yet, but hopefully our neighbor to the north will decide to change that in the near future because they are lovely bikes to ride!

Warm sun on our faces and a nice breeze at our backs (most of the time!). Of course, today there are a few sore muscles in places that I'd forgotten and a longing for some new cycling gear that I hadn't thought much about in the depths of the soggy month of June. But, I wouldn't trade those things for the world. Happy Days!

Freight Trains of the Atlantic

2009-07-08T15:28:00.004-04:00

by Roby Holland (aka the Old Man in the Sea)

For those of you who don't know I have an obsession for fishing. In the last couple of years I have honed my skills targeting Stripers and Bluefish in and around Duxbury MA. This year a friend and I decided to make a go at some Bluefin Tuna on Stellwagon Bank which is about 17 nm from Duxbury Bay.

We headed out at 5:30am towards the grounds with some iffy weather. The total trip took us 35 mins and the seas were between 2 to 3 ft. Once at the location we hooked up the bait and let them swim. It was only about 5 minutes till the first fish took the bait. It was a very large and strong Bluefish, that once brought boat side, broke thru the 80lbs floro leader and took off. Next two fish were Stripers and were both between 25 and 30lbs respectively. We hung around for a while longer with some hits but not the type of hits we were looking for, so we moved into deeper water.

Once we made it to deeper water our luck changed. The bird activity picked up to a frantic pace and the water began to come alive. Baits in the water, it was time to wait for a hook up and we did not have to wait long. My friend's bait disappeared in a wash of white foam and his line began to peel off his reel faster than anything I had ever witnessed before. We had hooked a Tuna!!! I put the boat in gear and began to chase down the fish, with my buddy reeling as fast as he could, but it wasn't long before we realized that this was a large Tuna. Once we were on the Tuna my friend began to try to muscle it in with no luck. The fish pinned him to the rail of the boat and only let him stand up to get some line when it wanted him to. After about 20 minutes of fighting, the rod was passed over to me. It wasn't until I had full control or thought I had full control of the rod that I realized how powerful these fish are. I consider myself to be in fairly good shape and this fish would not let me gain any ground on him at the beginning of the battle. I would try to stand and lean into the rod to get some line only to be pulled back down to the rail with authority. It was thrilling to say the least, until our luck began to change. I noticed that the reel began to move to the side of the rod as I reeled and I tried to tighten up the seat with no luck. The fish had started to break the rod and so the fight became more difficult. We began to gain some ground on the fish and knew we were getting close to getting this fish boat side, or so we thought. The fish began to give me a tour of my boat (literally) pinned to the rail he it went starboard aft, I went starboard aft and then back up to the bow of the boat. It made a quick dart around the bow as I lifted the rod, the line caught on the bow eye and SNAPPED!!!!! That's it….. as fast as it started it was gone. The ride back was a nasty painful hour and half ride into 4ft+ swells. It gave us plenty of time to understand what had just happen. We had hooked on to the freight train of the Atlantic.

Here are three pic from my adventure. First one is where I think I have the upper hand, second is where I know I don't and third is where I'm wondering if it was a wise choice to go after a fish that potentially weighs 1/3 of my boats capacity! Good times had by all…even the tuna.

P.S. Bluefin are a highly fished species. Please do your part to only harvest fish you need and return the rest for another day.
Cheers Roby

Cruisin'

2009-06-26T14:12:00.003-04:00

First it was slow food and now its slow ride...Its really fun to see the explosion in interest in all things cruiser bikes! Our good friends at Kickstand Magazine have had tremendous response to their inaugural issue and are reporting numbers as much as 500-600 riders at cruiser rides they're holding across the country this summer. What a sight it must be to see! To get a hint of the good stuff you'll find in the magazine (look for it at a bike shop near you) check out www.kickstandmag.com or www.cruiserride.com. Also watch this space for more information about their ride calendar, should you want to check out some of the bikes in person. You'll see Kryptonite locks around the events for sure.

Watch Out For That Bike Lock

2009-06-24T16:40:00.003-04:00

Here at Kryptonite we've been picking up on an unsettling trend lately. Be aware and beware! It seems that in some cities enterprising bike thieves have been targeting bikes that can be easily broken, putting their own lock on the bike and leaving for later pick up. When they return what does the passerby see? Nothing out of the ordinary - a guy unlocking a bike with a key and riding away. Don't get me wrong, even a lightweight, flimsy lock can serve a good purpose, but when you need to make sure your bike isn't stolen, don't risk becoming a target like this. Make sure your lock is strong enough to do the job all day, or all night, until you return.

Where Have We Been ??

2009-06-24T16:20:00.004-04:00

Yes, it has been so long since our last post that an univited guest moved in....

Lesson learned about talking to our Kryptonite lock friends...it can be hard work to come up with pearls of wisdom each day. Sorry if you've been disappointed when you haven't found anything new here, but thanks for being patient until we got back on track.

If you are like us, you are really happy that we've had so much wonderful rain this season, but enough is enough already. The weather has certainly put a damper on cycling activities in many parts of the country, but not so in New York. Eric, our National Sales Manager for bike spent a soggy weekend at the Bicycle Film Festival and was happy to chat with the stalwart souls who weren't going to be put off by a little water. Some of them brought out their most colorful rides to try to chase away the funk.

See New York City For Free!

2009-05-19T13:16:00.004-04:00

Sound too good to be true? Yeah, I thought so, as well, until finding something very cool on the Wend Magzine blog about a FREE bike rental program being offered by the Downtown Alliance in an effort to get more people on the city streets out of cars and onto bikes. Check out the full article here. http://www.wendmag.com/blog/2009/05/19/new-york-city-offers-free-bike-rentals/

Bike To Work Week

2009-05-07T17:07:00.003-04:00

Just a reminder that next week is Bike to Work Week! Kryptonite hears from a number of cities and towns at this time of year that are hosting great events to get more people out on their bikes and we applaud every one. Whether your bike is old, new or somewhere inbetween, dust it off, pump up the tires, put your helmet on and join the fun. Fewer cars, fewer fumes, less traffic, more happy people in the office. What's not to love? Well, maybe the BenGay smell from the people that haven't ridden in a while, but other than that?? :-)

15 Bike Friendly Cities

2009-04-30T13:03:00.002-04:00

From my Wend Magazine twitter follow....check out 15 bike friendly cities article before you make your summer holiday plans...http://matadortrips.com/the-worlds-15-most-bike-friendly-cities/. Remember both your helmet and your lock, preferrably a Kryptonite lock!

You Might Be a Biker If...

2009-04-27T14:40:00.003-04:00

Just had to share this with you, from the good folks of the Virago Owners Club...http://www.viragoownersclub.org/Biker1/Possible_Biker.htm

In case you've been sleeping under a rock, Spring has finally arrived in most parts of the US and with it, a whole new crop of bikes on the road. Remember to change lanes with care and share the road with motorcycles, for the safety of everyone!

Cool Way to "Pedal" Your Business

2009-04-24T15:01:00.004-04:00

Just made a new friend with a bike messenger in Barcelona, Spain and I am extremely impressed with the way his messenger company presents itself. Really cool site and very interesting approach to building client relationships (also happen to be Kryptonite EV Mini lock users, but I digress). Check them out...and if ever in need of messenger services in Barcelona, give them a ring! www.imensajeros.com

A Deer Cycles to End Hunger

2009-04-15T09:28:00.003-04:00

Yes, these are tough times...enough said about that. But, there are still many people in our company (Ingersoll Rand) and elsewhere looking for ways to make the lives of others easier. I am humbled by those people. One I'll mention today is a new friend, Trish Karter, founder of Dancing Deer Bakery, soon to embark on a 1500 bike ride from Atlanta to Boston, to raise attention to, and financial support for, feeding hungry families. She doens't need to put her body out there, just her celebrity. But, she wouldn't be satisfied with that. Follow her on twitter to learn about her progress and give her moral support.

Happy Tax Day!

2009-04-15T09:21:00.003-04:00

Oh boy, its been way too long since last post...but appropriate that I break the fast with a comment on civil disobedience. Will be interesting to see how the Teabag demonstrations planned for today will be covered by the media. Sitting in Boston, home of the original Teabag demonstration, this issue is especially poignant. Wonder how things would have turned out if the original civil disobedients had ridden bikes away from the scene of the action? Happy Tax Day, All!

A Little Civil Disobedience Feels Right Sometimes

2009-03-26T09:57:00.004-04:00

Just read a great article in Cycle World online about Malcolm Smith, the offroad legend turned retailer, having enough with the new CPSC guidelines that prevent him from selling minibikes, ATV's, etc. to families for their children's use and deciding its time for a little civil disobedience. In Malcolm's view, the questionable legislation behind the new guidelines was rightly intended but not well designed, leaving the public frustrated and businesses burdened. (I don't disagree). Malcolm's not done expressing his distaste for how this is affecting a sport he dearly loves...For the rest of the story, check out http://www.cycleworld.com/article.asp?section_id=3&article_id=1094&cid=CWsub2NL0309

Someone's Bin Thinkin'

2009-03-19T11:07:00.002-04:00

Saw a reference to this new bike pannier concept and had to share it because it is great! One more thing that will make commuting and shopping by bike a little bit easier this year. Get all the details at http://www.bikebins.com/ And, when you do start to use your bike more regularly for transport, don't forget your Kryptonite lock. (shameless commercial) :-)

Run Naked

2009-03-13T12:33:00.003-04:00

by Roby Holland, National Sales Manager, Commercial

Last night I got home from work and took off for a run. There was just enough daylight to get in my loop that brings me down to a lake where I usually find some people fishing or hanging out with their dogs. This run was different, there was an unusual flow to it and as I continued along the way digesting and dissecting the day's work, it hit me. I was running naked! Not literally, but in my rush to get out the door I did not have my heart monitor or my I-pod with me. This run was different, my breathing was more consistent and my pace more even and I was able to hear my body again. I know that sounds quirky but before there were I-pods, heart rate monitors and GPS devices we ran naked in a sense. I think most of these devices serve a good purpose, but GPS? I'll save that for a later post. The reason I think the run went so smoothly is because I was unplugged and I was running to my own internal beat and not the Black Eye Peas or Red Hot Chili Peppers. I forgot what that felt like and at the end of the run I turned in my best time for this short loop. Too deep a thought to go any further with this at this time of the morning. Well enjoy whatever you are doing and once every so often try it naked.

Spring Is Here!

2009-03-11T15:20:00.005-04:00

Despite what that furry little Punx, Phil may have wanted us to believe, we've turned the corner to Spring! How do I know? A good friend of Kryptonite, saw his shadow, while taking a ride this weekend. Rejoice! We made in through another winter!!!

(photo courtesy of Neil McDaid)

Gentlemen Start Your...Pedal Stroke??

2009-03-09T16:36:00.003-04:00

Was just reading about how Roller Racing is gaining momentum (no pun intended)! For those of us in chilly, clammy climates, more bike shops and riding clubs..and bars looking to sell more beers...are hosting regular roller racing events for good causes (Kryptonite's been there) or good laughs watching some poor individual turn purple going nowhere fast. There are a bunch of software options to give racers choices of ride experiences. So, who needs CO, AZ, CA scenery to enjoy riding?

Message to Thieves...Fahgettaboudit!!!

2009-03-06T13:26:00.003-05:00

Pardon me while I brag for a moment...Kryptonite's New York Faghettaboudit U-Lock just received expert's pick (no pun intended) in Commuter Conversion article in latest issue of Men's Journal Magazine. The lock was put through its paces by world-champion safecracker Dave LaFarge and passed with flying colors.

High Rollin' Weekend

2009-03-03T14:41:00.006-05:00

For all you scooter owners/lovers in the vicinity of Las Vegas on weekend of March 19th, join the fun of the 10th Anniversary High Rollers Weekend bash! This promises to be a wild weekend with a scooter build-off and plenty of other ways to show off or get into a little innocent trouble. You might even be one of the lucky folks to go home with a shiny new Kryptonite lock for your scooter, being raffled to support the event.

For more information about

the event check out http://www.highrollersweekend.com/2009/info/index.html

A "Quality" Time!

2009-02-25T15:13:00.006-05:00

by Don Warren, Category Manager

This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend the Quality Bicycle Products' winter dealer event called Frostbike. The opportunity to attend came up for me because Eric Anastasia, our bicycle sales manager, and his wife had just taken delivery of a new family member : the 2009 Ethan Paul edition. So I thought I would share with you a few bits from the show.

This being my first Frostbike, initially I worried about how cold Minnesota could be, but delighted that the temperature was above my threshold of 0 F degrees sans wind for each the 3 days there. We even got 5" of soft fluffy white stuff (Rivaled Utah powder) on Friday night to make the theme FROSTBIKE match the event.

Eric told me just a few things about the event, but I did know I was to talk with bicycle dealers about our line of security products we have to offer. During the 3 days, I had the pleasure to meet a lot of people who run shops from across the country. We had tons of interest in the Kryptonite products. I was able to advise the dealers of the improvements we made in our New York chain series and NEW New York Liberty chain. I also previewed a new product we will be launching soon. The atmosphere was charged, even with the tuff economic times we're in; Dealers felt they were doing ok, considering, which is a good sign.

Ok, enough about product, now the little things you think about when traveling to an event... how to I get from here to there, where should I stay, go to eat and all that. Well, from the minute I landed to the last minute before being dropped of at the airport I was so impressed with the way the event was organized! The hospitality was awesome. I think almost every QBP employee was working to support the show so I knew quickly that if I needed something I could just ask for help.

The food there was spot on and the after-show time Micro-beer(s,s,s,..) offerings were well received. They also had a nighttime event for the dealers to try which was an obstacle course set up to test-ride a Surly Pugsley’s. This bike had 3.7” wide tires. What an off-road piece of art and I’m told it rides well too...I obviously thought it would be poor taste on my part to climb over some visiting dealer to get my turn on the bike.

The office/distribution center was unlike any I have visited in the US. Their automation of handling orders from receipt to shipping goods on a truck was impressive, but what struck me the most was QBP has really taken responsibility for their impact on the environment. Their distribution center (DC) / offices has achieved a LEED “Gold” certification for being “GREEN”. Check it out here. The land they built on is next to a state park and in fact they have running/riding trails right outside their doors. Boy would that be nice and I’m jealous. One other important thing to mention is QBP supports many efforts globally to promote cycling and help others in need. I learned a lot.

I now know why QBP has become a great partner to so many bicycle shops around the country and the cycling manufacturers they support. Hopefully I can make it back next year if my boss let’s me 8:).

Let the Good Deeds Roll!

2009-02-20T14:36:00.003-05:00

Our congrats to Providence, RI based Recycle-A-Bike, for a successful Roller Race benefit which attracted riders from all walks of life last week. Although the Friday the 13th date was a coincidence, you can see from the pictures that some of the roller-racers looked pretty scarey after they finished their turn! The prospect of winning a Kryptonite lock and raising money for such a good cause transformed them into monster riders...>> Check out the pictures.

So much for my bad puns...here are a few words about the event from our friend Maggie who coordinated, along with other tireless volunteers...

Bike riders and advocates, messengers and occasional riders, men and women of all ages converged on the night of Friday the 13th for Providence's first Roller Races, a benefit for Recycle-a-Bike. With upwards of a hundred people cheering, each racer chose his or her opponent and faced off for a 500m sprint, lasting at best 22 seconds. 42 racers, one broken bike, and multiple raffles later, top times in women's and men's raced for the finals. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our community bike collective, thank you to all of our wonderful sponsors, and thanks to all the volunteers who helped make Recycle-a-Bike the true winner of the evening! If you missed this one, don't worry; there will be more in the future. If you'd like to help make this happen, Recycle-a-Bike is always in need of new volunteers. Stay tuned; spring is coming.

Don't Let a Bus be Your Motivation!

2009-02-18T14:25:00.001-05:00

by Roby Holland, Commercial Sales Manager

Right around now I begin my resolution list and over the years it has become shorter, not because I'm accomplishing all my goals, but it is a depressing sight at the end of the year when I look back at all the things I didn't do and could have. We'll I cannot say that I have changed my stripes, but I am becoming better. Anyhow, if you are looking for motivation for getting off the couch or doing things that you say you want to do before you blow your mortal coil, look no further then this article in Runner's World March issue. The title of the article is "26.2 or Die". It gives new definition to the meaning "Long Haul". Read it and you'll be off the couch in no time.

A New Meaning for the Phrase Cycle Track

2009-02-18T14:04:00.007-05:00

I'm a little behind schedule with posts, as you can see. Just returned from the 2009 Power Sport Dealer Expo in Indianapolis. While it seemed that attendance was a little lighter than in recent years, the people who were there were definitely interested in doing business. The power sport dealers we talked to are trying to focus on the 92% of the people who are still employed rather than the 8% who are not - what a refreshing perspective compared to the gloom and doom too frequently presented by the media!

So, here's a belated tidbit found by Eric Anastasia, National Sales Manager, on a recent trip to Portland, OR... I was out on the Left coast in Portland Oregon last week visiting one of our distributors Cyclone Bicycle Supply. While I was there I picked up the local newspaper (Portland Tribune) to read over breakfast and I came across an interesting article about how they are enhancing their bike paths in the city. The project that they spoke about was appealing because instead of putting in bike lanes they were putting in a raised platform. It seems pretty smart because the ‘cycle track’ as they call it will be on its own level and the cars will be one level lower. Then one level higher than the ‘cycle track” will be the sidewalks that will be separated by planters. Take a look at the image that I scanned from the article and if you want to read for yourself here is the link. http://www.portlandtribune.com/news/story.php?story_id=123378662118319800

Before signing out, I'd like to congratulate Eric and his wife Cheryl on the birth of their first son and newest Team Kryptonite member yesterday morning! Eric had just arrived home from the trade show when they turned around and left for the hospital. Talk about amazing timing...

Newbie on the Slope

2009-02-06T15:53:00.003-05:00

Another first for our mild-mannered design engineer from a much hotter climate, JJ....last night he braved almost zero degree weather to learn how to snowboard! Why then, we can't really say, other than the fact that Rob, our crazy Engineering Director convinced him it would be a great idea! So, off they went to the Blue Hills Ski Area by the office and JJ subjected himself to the torture of sliding, falling, sliding, falling, falling, sliding. All for Rob's enjoyment, I'm sure.

JJ, we're proud of your fearlessness. Just be careful not to agree when Rob suggests you try sledding next..because he ain't talkin' down the hill on an innertube!

Trash to Treasure!

2009-02-04T11:11:00.003-05:00

Crash, boom, trashed wheel, bent rim, ouch...here's how to look at that crumpled metal mess and see it repurposed as a thing of beauty! Check out http://www.bikefurniture.com/

Think Pink!

2009-02-04T10:42:00.005-05:00

In the spirit of don't let tough economic times get you down, I'm happy to report another bike share program is being organized by a bunch of very enterprising students at Rhode Island School of Design (or RISD as it is more affectionately called by all the "Doids")...the Pink Bike program is in its infancy, but soon we hope to see pink bikes sprouting up all over Providence like so many tulips in spring. The fact that they are concerned about bike security, even for loaner bikes strikes the right chord in my ole' heart. Check 'em out at http://risdbiketown.wordpress.com/2008/11/09/hello-world/ and look for the bikes when you're in the Providence area. Other programs out there? Give us a shout and we'll tell the world for you, as well.

Super Sunday, or Why Do They Have to Start Pre-Game Show at 9am??!!?

2009-01-30T17:01:00.003-05:00

AAARRRREEEE you ready for some
FFOOOOTTTTBAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLL????????????????????
Sorry, couldn't resist...if you're so inclined to be watching "the game" this weekend, hope your team gives you something to cheer about! But, if not, there's always the half-time show and the commercials to look forward to.

Economic Stimulus H-D Style

2009-01-28T13:47:00.004-05:00

Exciting news from Milwaukee...Harley-Davidson will be introducing a more affordable Sportster, the Iron 883, with a price tag of around $7900. That should keep that freedom feelin' within reach of a lot more riders this year!

Lean Honda Motorcycle Racing Calendar Ahead

2009-01-23T13:16:00.005-05:00

Sad news reported by Reuters today...Honda Motor Company is going to exit most forms of motorcycle racing today, in a bid to cut costs and weather world economic slump...already exited Formula One. MotoGP is safe for the moment. Just as sad was the news that Subaru and Suzuki were pulling out of the world rally championship, for the same reason. I can think of one or two of our friends who are shedding a tear over that news...

Hi-Def BMX?

2009-01-22T11:06:00.004-05:00

Great news ! The American Bicycle Association and NBC inked a four-year deal to cover BMX racing events on NBC's Universal Sports, beginning this year. The popularity and success of inclusion of BMX in the 2008 Olympics must have convinced the broadcast execs there is indeed a viewing audience for cycling events beyond the annual obvious one. More Lance, more BMX, its a great time for those of us who like to watch as much as ride.

Brand New Day

2009-01-20T10:17:00.005-05:00

Driving to work this morning and listening to all the celebratory hoopla, I was reminded that each day can be a brand new start for me, if I think of it in those terms. This is an exciting day!

As Kenneth Cole just said a short time ago in pre-Inauguration news commentary, "you can change your outfit...you can outfit change..." ?!?!

eine kleine cycle-roman

2009-01-17T14:09:00.006-05:00

Shame on us (me)...been quiet for too long. Caught up in the flurry of work activity that always seems to occur right after the holidays. But, couldn't let another day go by without sharing a great story about a lock that just wasn't going to let go! Forgive me while I get totally predictable and trite and say "now that's an unbreakable bond!" From our friend, JMW in London, England...

What music would we use to accompany display of this little story!?

Elsewhere, ghastly wars, flung in everyone's conscience; other ghastly wars kept away from our guilt glands; all around us, a collapsing economy - and we choose to spend 15 minutes on THIS?

A cycle has been obstructing our pavement - it has been there for about a fortnight like this - single pedestrians can readily step round it but those wheeling a pram might find it more awkward; this is the second cycle in recent months, fixed to this post - the previous bike disappeared leaving a massive locked chain at the foot of the post; the present one is in a rigid position.

A jack for lifting cars has been inserted into the D-Lock and expanded, intending to force the D-Lock apart; indeed, it has bent - but the car-jack is now rigid and so is the position of the whole assembly. This is why the bike can not be moved, as things are ...

It does not take too much of an effort - with a wrench - to force the car-jack to fold back, and so to remove it and allow the bike to be set straight.

We have now set the bike straight. It has suffered one cut brake-cable, and scratches to the frame. We do not have time to knock on local doors to find the owner - who might be far away, and this bike itself stolen . At any rate, it is now less obstructive to users of the pavement.

The battered, bent but undaunted (kryptonite) D-lock continues in place to do its job.

Happy 2009!

2009-01-01T15:07:00.004-05:00

No 2008 year in review comments to be found here. We'll leave that to all the other journalists and bloggers. I'd rather focus on the opportunity to make a change that is presented to all of us with the beginning of a new year. This year, more than any in the recent past, let's not waste a single day!

Wishing all of our friends and blog visitors a happy 2009! Thanks for visiting. Come back often.
Watch for our latest ramblings and reports.

Bicycling to New Jobs

2008-12-26T15:53:00.004-05:00

by Martin Larsen, messenger

Bicycle street vendors in Copenhagen are forging new ways for the city.

There were new businesses on bikes this summer as a couple of guys started to sell coffee from trikes. They are quite popular.

Now that the cold has descended on the city there are half a dozen rolling soup kitchens moving about the core providing hot meals to those in need. Fortunately they tend to their jobs while being at their bikes. A lot of the messengers have had to change from the traditional Copenhagen lock that just attached to the frame and was enough for working until the last year and a half . There has been an upswing of theft targeting messenger bikes. So now something like 75% of the messengers in Copenhagen use Kryptonite mini locks to keep their tools safe.

2008 Markus Cook Messenger Award Announced

2008-12-26T15:35:00.002-05:00

by Buffalo Bill, Moving Target Ezine

The International Federation of Bicycle Messenger Associations (IFBMA) has announced that Copenhagen messenger Martin ‘Banana’ Larsen has been honoured with the 2008 Markus Cook Award. The MCA is presented annually to the courier who inspires and empowers the wider messenger community, the messenger that puts all of us before themselves.
Martin is a veteran messenger who, as IFBMA president, Andy Duncan, notes, is known for tireless hard work, organizing messenger races and pulling people together. Messenger championships all over the world have benefited from his sacrifice and dedication. From Copenhagen, Oslo and New York City to Sydney, Dublin and Toronto, Martin’s influence is not only upon the Championships but also the messenger community.

Congrats to our friend Martin!

Winter Adventure

2008-12-23T12:09:00.003-05:00

by R-

Plenty of snow around here; we got almost 2 feet from 2 storms in 2 days. If you can’t have an outdoor adventure, have an indoor one. My great adventure of choice is reading...the best way to exercise the gray matter! I can go back in time or to other worlds. I can walk with famous people of the past, or visit someone’s idea of the future. If the story is scary enough I can get my heart rate up as successfully as any other aerobic workout. Rain, snow, sleet and wind can not keep me from my unbreakable bond with reading.

So, if you can’t get outside for your adventure; pull up a chair, add marshmallows to the hot chocolate and grab a good book.

Wishing all bloggers and readers of the blog a safe, healthy and Happy Holiday Season!

One More Picture From The Camera Phone

2008-12-15T12:01:00.004-05:00

The last time Rob Z. was in Taiwan, he snapped this picture of a BMW police car - no Crown Vic's to be found there. You couldn't miss this coming up in your rear view mirror. Bet they don't have too many officers calling in sick when they have something like this to drive around...

Kids Don't Try This At Home

2008-12-15T11:43:00.005-05:00

Those of you who know Rob Z., our Director of Engineering, know that he's a guy who is quite comfortable in the woods, spending his free time expending a lot of energy in very cold temperatures. One of his latest projects is no exception. Rob, and a few other hearty souls, agreed to help a good friend raise a barn on his NH property. This is no prefab wonder - it is the real deal post and beam...complete with pegs the size of a large man's thumbs and constructed from tools you won't find at the local orange or blue big box hardware store. Here are a few shots of the work in progress...it is going to be a thing of beauty when all done. If you wondered where Rob got the strength to maul products the way he does when he's doing destruction testing, this should give you a clue...

Very Cool Last Minute Gift Idea

2008-12-15T11:31:00.002-05:00

Over the weekend, my hubby stumbled onto a very cool gift idea in December issue of Wired Magazine. If you haven't seen it yet, check out this bicycle helmet design, perfect for the commuting or recreational cyclist who doesn't want to look like a velo club refugee. You can find more information on them at http://www.coolhunting.com/.

The Royal Flush Poker Run

2008-12-15T11:17:00.004-05:00

by Eric Anastasia, National Sales Manager, Bicycle

Last week I helped support an alley cat here in Boston. The guys who put it together are also opening a new shop soon in an undisclosed spot in the Harvard Sq. area….stay tuned. openbicycle
These guys are real good guys and are super energetic about bikes and the community that surrounds it. They are a focused and progressive crew that are making huge efforts to help build the urban cycling culture in the city that I have called home for the past 10 year. (damn, time flies).
Anyway with 20-degree weather, gusting winds and our first snowfall, The Royal Flush Poker Run was better than we imagined! Over 80 people from all over New England collected cards, drank beer, ate burritos, completed the Poker Run and partied to their heart's content. Here are some pictures of the night.

Photos courtesy of Justin Keena - http://www.justinkeena.com/

Business Slow Down? Not If The Perewitzs Can Help It!

2008-12-04T08:08:00.005-05:00

By Jody Perewitz...
Our crew has settled at the shop for the month of December. After many miles of traveling it is nice to have a month off!

With all the talk about the economy and such I thought I would share a couple of Perewitz theories. I am sure that everyone no matter what has been hit by the economy in some way or another. Hopefully it hasn’t been anything major! Maybe with any luck a new president will bring change!

I feel as though the motorcycle industry is one of the last hit. We haven’t been extremely busy but still busy enough that everyone has something to do. So that is the important thing that we can keep working. We are also able to adapt to new things. We have been dipping into the metric market. Fortunately our mechanics can work on a plethora of things, making our business able to change with times. One of our latest projects was a Vespa Scooter!

In the summer time when the gas prices were $4+ a gallon, motorcycle sales skyrocketed! It was much more efficient to ride a motorcycle to work than your gas guzzling car. So as you can imagine we were busy with service work. Now gas is down to under $2 (we never thought that would happen!) it is the perfect time to bring your bike to us and drive your car in the cold winter months! We can winterize it, store it, upgrade it, add chrome, etc.

Another effect of a slower economy is the repairs of older stuff. Many people are fixing their old vehicles, motorcycle or car, rather than buying new ones. Although we would love to work on clean new bikes, we like the old ones too! Our customers seem to be adding chrome, paint, motor work, etc. to their bike. Some minor adjustments can make a bike look like something totally different.

We are hoping, like most Americans, that this draught won’t last much longer. America needs some aid and I really hope that Barack Obama is what we need…

Bike2Work

2008-12-02T10:52:00.003-05:00

Three cheers for the latest UK/US collaboration! Two cycling mavens written about before in our blog, Carlton Reid and Tim Grahl, have completed their book, Bike to Work, and to borrow their words, it is a page-flippin' beauty! To download a free 50 page sampler , go to http://tinyurl.com/Bike2Work. Once you do, I bet you won't be able to wait for the full 250 page version due out at the end of December.

Another Happy Cranksgiving!

2008-12-01T12:32:00.009-05:00

Congrats to our friend, Ken Stanek, and all the hearty souls who made the 10th Annual Cranksgiving charity alley cat race in New York City the best one yet. 106 racers succeeded in raising and donating more than $1000 in food to Saint Mary's soup kitchen on the Lower East Side, as well as over 200 jars of baby food for two Women & Children's charities (Nazareth Housing & Hudson Guild). If that wasn't enough, $1682.40 was raised for City Harvest and $420.60 was raised for the New York Bike Messenger Foundation.

Plans are already underway for the Cranksgiving 11 event, so if you'd like to know how you can help or join in the insanity, bookmark http://www.nybma.com/ and watch for details.

Mother Nature as Artist

2008-11-26T14:35:00.004-05:00

We've been pretty lucky to have a mild fall in New England so far, but there are hints that winter is right around the corner. Rob Zuraski, our Director of Engineering, came out of his house this morning to find his car totally transformed by Mother Nature as a cold front moved through last night. Check out these amazing pictures of the frost patterns literally covering the car.

Celebrating a New Unbreakable Bond

2008-11-26T14:33:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Eric Anastasia, National Sales Manager, on his recent marriage to longtime girlfriend, Cheryl!

Welcome Next Generation Team Kryptonite!

2008-11-18T12:40:00.002-05:00

We're happy to report that Team Kryptonite member, Nicole Hoffman Roesch and her husband became parents last week, welcoming daughter Lucia into the world! Luci, Mom and Dad are all adjusting nicely to each other and rumor has it, Nicole has already been lulling her to sleep with instructions about how to stay balanced on her bike rather than childish nursery rhymes....we're expecting her to be the next blonde on wheels.

Happy Days Ahead!

2008-11-14T14:10:00.001-05:00

I've got the best 'unbreakable bond' story. After many many years of dating my honeybunny, we finally got married on 9/21. Now to choose this perfect special day I did a lot of research. Wanting an outdoor beach ceremony late in the year in New England I knew I had a challenge ahead of me. However it paid off and that weekend was 70 degrees, sunny and not too windy out. The day was perfect and everything went as planned. This is a bond that will last for many more years to come…..

Signed, Mrs. Bashful, Customer Service

Happy First Century!

2008-11-10T16:51:00.009-05:00

Props and Happy Birthday to Josh, the eleven year old son of a good Kryptonite friend in the UK, who did his very first Century ride this weekend....yes, you read that correctly...eleven years old, one hundred miles on his bike....boy, do I feel like a lump!

For pix and more details from his proud dad, check out http://quickrelease.tv/?p=662

Look Good, Stay Safe While Riding

2008-11-07T13:18:00.004-05:00

I've seen too many cyclists and runners almost become hood ornaments lately because they have earbuds in and aren't paying attention to the sounds of traffic around them. At least they don't have to ill-combine with someone's bumper because they didn't see the car coming up behind them with these cool new Nike Hindsight glasses, spotted in Trend Hunter. The glasses are designed with a lense that gives the wearer 250 degree view versus the standard 180 degree view that most glasses give. And, you don't even have to turn your head...think about it - no need to give away the fact that you're staring at that good-looking person you just went past! Wear them and ride safely!

iThink iCan iThink iCan

2008-11-07T13:03:00.004-05:00

Car and Driver reports that Steve Jobs recently met with VW CEO Martin Winterkorn to talk about the possibility of an iCar! How wild would that be?? I wonder if you'd have to send the car back to Apple when it was time to change the battery, like your iPod?

Let's see if there's talk soon of an iBike or iCycle...

Lance and Twitter

2008-11-06T10:35:00.003-05:00

If you just can't get enough of Lance Armstrong these days, here are a few more places you can find him and even follow along with his training:

Lance was at the Web 2.0 Summit 2008 this week. He was interviewed on a host of subjects including football, his comback and the web. Check it out.

You can follow along with Lance's training and his life on his Twitter stream. He talks about his kids, where he's off to each day and, yes, where he's training. He's even encouraged Taylor Phinney to sign up so you can follow this rising star along his journey.

Speaking of Twitter, there are a lot of cycling related folks on this microblogging site. Carlton Reid at BikeBiz has started a list for you. I knew about a couple of them, but had no idea the list was so extensive. Check out some of them. Your favorite shop might even be on the list.

Get Out And Vote!

2008-11-04T10:09:00.003-05:00

I saw a program on early Athenian democracy last night...now that was democracy in action. Ours is a slightly more watered down form, but successful, nonetheless. Its a perfect day to vote! I voted on my way into work this morning, and I hope you have plans to do so, as well. Don't squander your right to vote, regardless of which way you're leaning....too many people in the world don't get to do so and would love to, at least once. Enough from the soap box, although the view is fine from up here today.

Bob Roll in California this Saturday

2008-11-03T14:57:00.002-05:00

If you live in Costa Mesa, CA or any of the surrounding towns, c'mon down to Two Wheels One Planet on Saturday night. Kryptonite is hosting An Evening with Bob Roll starting at 5pm.

Bob will be talking about his experiences racing in some of the classics as well as his observations commentating on some great Tours now.

And, we all know Bobke isn't shy about sharing his opinions...ask him pretty much anything you want. What does he think about Lance and the comback, Rock Racing and the state of cycling today? Ask him. He'll let you know.

Here's the info:
420 E. 17th Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Phone: 949-646-7717

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T10:10:00.003-04:00

Expecting more ghosts and goblins at my door tonight than last year. How 'bout you? The scariest will be a posse of marauding 80+ year olds that terrorize our neighborhood in a Mercedes Benz! Made sure we got the candy that we don't like to eat too much so we won't have to do many minutes on the treadmill. Its hard to run in a witch's costume...

Have a scary but safe evening! And, oh by the way, don't have so much fun this weekend that you forget to set your clocks back....end of daylight savings for another year...BOOOOOO!!!!

Can You Say Road Trip??

2008-10-30T11:43:00.004-04:00

Back from my desert vacation (which was wonderful, thank you!) just in time to learn that the US Bicycle Route System project, which has been not much more than a vision for the past four years has become a reality! For more information about this advocacy triumph check out www.adventurecycling.org/usbrs . (Nice to read about something uplifting for a change...) Just think, if this project is fully executed we could have as many as 50,000 miles of an interstate cycling route network. How's that for a road trip?!?

Alternative Transportation Day at Ingersoll Rand

2008-10-28T17:26:00.004-04:00

by Holly Emerson, Ingersoll Rand

Wednesday, October 22nd 2008 proved to be a beautiful day here at the Davidson campus of Ingersoll Rand for our inaugural Alternative Transportation Day and a great opportunity for employees to learn more about greener ways of getting to work and how we can reduce traffic congestion and help clean the air.

The day started off at a crisp 37degF and dark. Four of us, that would be Elizabeth Newidomy (a true greeney), me and my assistants, Ryan (9) and Kayla (7), froze for about 90 minutes handing out lunch vouchers and Starbucks gift cards to alert carpoolers and some very dedicated bicyclists. One woman rode in at about 7am on her beach cruzer. How cool is that? I think she gets the prize for most creative alternative transportation method, whenever I decide what that is.

Several carpoolers sped right past us, apparently we looked like some crazy family waiting for a ride. Lesson learned: wear the Progress is greener gear so people can spot you. We were soon joined by Gabe Workman from Clean Air Works! and Michael Gart, an energenic young grad. All in all we recorded almost 100 carpoolers, three bike commuters and one vanpool group.

As the day warmed up so did the activities. Chris Vasiloff, Arleigh Jenkins, Steve Doolittle, John Wilcox and Sarah Matchett from Cool Breeze Cyclery were on hand to inspect bikes and lead a lunch ride through Davidson. Their large yellow and black tent was a good draw for the avid cyclists on campus. Also joining them was Lauren Blackburn, Davidson town planner. The town of Davidson recently approved a bicycle transportation plan which will improve bicycling conditions on many roads and eventually link a Mooresville to Charlotte route, encouraging more to commute by bike.

Elizabeth Lintner, also from Clean Air Works!, and Gabe had a table with lots of information about reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. And Dan McGuinness and Michael were on hand to answer any questions about carpooling and recruit new Green Team members.

Folks from Industrial Technologies, led by Dipen Shah, dedicated their time to help with a jam-packed Nitrogen fill day. They filled the tires of 31 cars with Nitrogen! With an increase of approximately 3.3% in fuel efficiency gained from properly inflated tires, this could potentially prevent 50 tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere in just one week! The Nitrogen fill is always a big draw. It's great to see people taking advantage of it.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Air Quality gave free gas cap checks and gas cap replacements for those getting Nitrogen in their tires. Up to 30 gallons of gasoline can be released from a leaking gas cap, in just one year.

And saving the best for last, many thanks to Kryptonite for the donation of four KryptoLok ®s for our raffle.

We wanted to educate people about greener commuting options, encourage commuting by bike, and tell employees about all the good things the transportation committee is doing. I think we accomplished our goals. It was a good day.

(Pictures by roaming photographer Harry Owanesian.)

Randomness

2008-10-27T07:22:00.004-04:00

Just some random things going on in the cycling world....

Already told you that Lance Armstrong is Twittering. You can follow him here. You don't need an account to do so either.

But....he's got a friend of his to sign up, too. Mr. Taylor Phinney. You can follow him here. According to the tweets, Taylor was in Austin for the Ride for the Roses this weekend and his friend Lance convinced him to Twitter. That's kind of cool.

You can see some photos of the start of the Ride for the Roses weekend on the LiveStrong Blog.

Interbike East was held last week (while I was out of town...bummer) in Providence. Both Rich at Interbike Times and Tim at Masi have write ups and photos for your viewing pleasure.

2009 Tour de France

2008-10-23T01:34:00.003-04:00

So, I guess the 2009 Tour de France route was announced. How do I know? Lance Armstrong is now on Twitter! I'm not kidding. You can follow along with his training, social engagements and even restaurant choices through his tweets.

Here's what he says about the Tour Day France 2009:

Now looking at the TdF route for 2009. Sure would like to erase those Ventoux dreams/nightmares...

Ah, Lance...you know you love it.

UPDATE (10/23): USAToday article with Lance makes it seem like he's surprised about "threats" along the roads from crazed fans during stages. He's rethinking this ride there a little bit. How is this different than when he raced before? Stages, particularly in the mountains, have always had passionate fans in the roads yelling in riders ears. I've always found it a little un-nerving, but it's not like this is new. Wonder if Lance is finding training slightly harder than he thought and he's trying to set expectations for his comeback now. Check it out, it's a good read.

Also, if you are in Austin this weekend, it's Ride for the Roses time. Enjoy!

Kryptonite dealer an honorary pit crew member during the 8 Hours at Daytona

2008-10-22T01:22:00.005-04:00

by Nicole Roesch, Team Kryptonite

Back in February Kryptonite, in coordination with Team Kryptonite member Nicole Roesch and Team RightsforBikers.com offered a raffle during the Indy Dealer Show for one lucky winner to become a part of the SunTrust MOTO-ST team during the annual 8 Hours at Daytona.

The 8-hour long race that took place Saturday, October 18th is a true test of endurance, both for the riders and the crew. The team competed in two separate classes: the SST class and GST class. Managing two teams and coordination of pit stops can be challenging. Thanks to Charles Schurman of Sportland 2 in Wisconsin the team had a flawless day along pit road. Charles was an integral part of the team in charge of calling in the riders with the pit sign.

Over the course of 8 hours, just about anything can happen. The #2 bike suffered some mechanical problems but the #69 Ducati PS1000LE (the bike that was on display at the Kryptonite booth at Indy) ran great. Riders John Linder, Garrett Rick and Jason Edmonds were consistent, earning a very respectable 4th place overall in the race!

Usually the blog I get to write is about the on track experience but this time I sat on the sidelines (baby due November 5th!) and got to watch the team in action. I miss the action and riding but it is still a honor to be able to celebrate in Victory Lane at the historic world center of racing.

We hope Charles had a great time and we look forward to offering this experience to more Krpyptonite dealers and customers!

Get a Free Bike...

2008-10-20T14:03:00.003-04:00

...if you are a college freshman and don't bring your car to school. How cool is that? Great article in the New York Times about many colleges that are getting creative with students to eliminate over flowing student parking as well as making campus more green. Some are even giving free bikes.

Hat tip to Holly at our parent company's offices in North Carolina. She's heading up an alternative transportation day this week at their facility, too. Helping out? Our friends at Cool Breeze Cyclery.

I hear there is a prize for the most creative alternative transportation method. Last week someone told me he/she may row over....that would be different, eh?

Happy Day Before Vacation!

2008-10-17T13:38:00.003-04:00

This is a quick note to tell you that I am finally getting some long-needed time away from the office and attending to that unbreakable bond I have with my husband. I'll be on vacation for the next 10 days, looking at very different scenery than I normally see here in New England. So, during my absence, I leave you in the capable hands of Donna (who hasn't really left our blog family, if you noticed) as well as Eric, Craig, Melissa, Roberta and some of the other talented contributors on our team. I hope to have some good adventures to share with you on my return.

bEautiful!

2008-10-16T09:56:00.002-04:00

Take a look at this new E-bike reviewed in the Wired blog....nice!....http://blog.wired.com/gadgets/2008/10/review-a2b-elec.html

Oh, and, nice anti-theft strategy being employed by the owner...:-)

We Have a Winner from Lowe's Motor Speedway!

2008-10-14T07:12:00.006-04:00

We had such a great time at Lowe's Motor Speedway on Saturday with all the NASCAR fans! We felt right at home with all of the Harley Davidson and Sturgis shirts we saw, too. We had great conversations with folks about their motorcycles, ATVs and even bicycles. It was a great day. Ok, it could have been better if Jeff Gordon pulled out a win, but it was a good night for him in the points and he even lead for a bit to get those all important 5 bonus points!

If you stopped by to see us...thanks! You couldn't have missed us, right? We were directly in front of the main, Speedway Blvd entrance. We just thought that was cool!

We also were running a contest which tons of people entered. We are giving away a New York Chain, New York Disc Lock, Evolution Mini and a Superman padlock along with an Ingersoll Rand Thunder Gun. No, we are not giving away the Club Car...sorry. We'd like to have that ourselves, but it was only on loan and is already back at its home at Club Car.

So....we have picked a winner.....could be you.....

Drum roll please.....

Our winner is.....

Kevin Powell from California!!!

Congratulations Kevin. I'm still traveling, but when I get back on Friday I'll give you a ring and make sure you get your prize next week.

Thanks, again, to everyone who stopped by. We hope you enjoyed the race and having a safe place to park your motorcycle at the track.

Vegas or Bust!

2008-10-13T11:48:00.004-04:00

We've been reading and commenting on a variety of efforts to bust the strangle hold our reliance on petroleum currently has on all our lives. A Berkeley, CA based event is raising this effort to an art form. Check out the Escape from Berkeley race that is ongoing as I write this! http://www.escapefromberkeley.com/

Race participants are only allowed to start the race with one gallon of gasoline and through any means necessary, are expected to be able to power their vehicles in such a way that they reach Las Vegas today. Make sure to go back to the blog to find out who wins.

Come Visit Kryptonite at Lowe's Motor Speedway

2008-10-10T21:52:00.007-04:00

We're back at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina for the Bank of America 500 Saturday night! We sponsor the motorcycle parking area so you'll have a great place to park your motorcycle when you are at the race. I just looked at the weather and it's supposed to be a beautiful night tomorrow. Perfect to ride to the race.

We'll be in the yellow Kryptonite tent just to the left of the big office tower/front of the track. C'mon by and visit. You can also enter to win a security package (all kinds of locks) along with a Thunder Gun!

Eric, Don and I look forward to seeing you.

Don and Eric checking out the motorcycle parking area in front of the track today.

The motorcycle parking area in the infield was filling up today.

Thanks to Club Car, one of our sister companies, for loaning us this great vehicle!

Don enjoyed looking at the monster Toyota.

Happy Birthday to Dale Earnhardt Jr! For his birthday, Dale Junior announced a new sponsorship with Unilever at LMS. That means you'll see Dale Junior in a few Nationwide races next year!

Who's going to win tomorrow night? The birthday boy...well, that would be ok, but my bet is always with the 24 of Jeff Gordon, of course.

Its A Bike Lock, Its A Padlock......

2008-10-10T16:27:00.004-04:00

I frequent the Salvation Army Store near my home. I was riding my bike behind the store (where donations are dropped off) when I saw Cheryl the manager holding a master padlock in her hand while lightly cursing. I stopped and asked what was wrong, well that was the fifth padlock that had been cut by thieves in the last two weeks. I whipped out my kryptonite U-lock and gave it to her along with the key. No more problems, the thieves gave up and the storage bin is now theft- proof. Cheryl eventually bought my Kryptonite lock for $50.00 and everyone is happy (except for the thieves). ~ JK, Blaine, MN

Google's Birthday Fun

2008-10-08T10:07:00.004-04:00

Remember where you were in 2001? Were you as prolific on the web as you are now? I'd have to guess not. But, if you need a reminder of the online world back in 2001, Google is giving you that chance.

For Google's 10th birthday, they are having some fun. They are showing us what searches looked like waaaaaay back then. It's kind of fun.

Search for things you know and use now online and see what happens. Facebook is a brief mention at Harvard. Twitter isn't mentioned at all in a social networking context. Microblogging doesn't exist! The search for "blog" provides some interesting results.

Yes, I Googled myself back in 2001. My "former life" of being involved with running pops up, but there are a lot of links that don't go anywhere - most of the content has been moved or removed.

Go on, Google yourself now and then.

As for Kryptonite, we fair pretty well. We're the number one spot without one mention of anything from the fall of 2004, obviously, because none of that happened yet!

Go on, take a look. You know you want to. Google yourself. Google your favorite company. Google your favorite sites today. Your favorite social media guru - where where they in '01?

Thanks for the look back, Google! And Happy Birthday!

Bike Friendly or Not?

2008-10-06T17:44:00.002-04:00

The League of American Bicyclists announced its first annual report on the most bicycle friendly places in the US. Want to know if you're living in the right place? Go to http://www.bikeleague.org/news/090508bfs.php to find out.

Fashion and Functionality in One Good Looking Package

2008-10-06T16:09:00.005-04:00

Recently I've been interested to see a cool trend developing - clothing and shoes designed for riding your bike or motorcycle that actually looks nice enough to want to buy and wear anytime. The latest I saw were very cool Joe Rocket jeans (www.joerocket.com) that have Kevlar reinforcements in places that would strain under constant stretch and built-in pockets for knee armor. Handsome enough that I'd like to see my guy in them anytime....

A New Use For Your Old Chainsaw

2008-10-02T11:33:00.009-04:00

by Eric Anastasi, Eastern Regional Manager

Once again I was surfing around the web on some of my favorite sites and found something that I thought I should share. Now- I have a chain saw and I have a motorcycle but I do not have one of these. Although depending how long this winter is, I may come spring.

Here is a bit about this machine.
The heart of the combined power plant is the central drive belt casing of aluminum construction. As well as encasing the eleven belts used to couple up the individual engines, it also houses the exhaust ducts for the cooling air. Twelve engines are mounted in two rows of six on either side of the drive belt casing. Each engine is held in place by means of two threaded studs that normally serve to secure the guide bar to the chainsaw power head. The individual motors are coupled together in sets of three by means of a double-sided drive belt, making up eight modules in all. The individual engines are not rigidly connected; instead they deliver their torque through the centrifugal clutch that is a standard feature of every chainsaw.

Maybe I can leave hints around the house for my fiancee to find...after all, Christmas is coming....

¡LOS MARCOS MADNESS!

2008-09-29T13:37:00.006-04:00

HI KRIPTONITE! THIS IS EL MARCO BUENO FROM WORLDS GREATAST POLO TEAM LOS MARCOS POLOS. ¡VIVA LOS MARCOS! SO HEY, THANKS YOU FOR SPONSOR OUR TORNAMENT WE HAVE IN NEW YORK CITY. IS SECOND YEAR NOW FOR TOURNAMENT AND WE MAKE IT TWICE AS BIG. MORE PRIZE! MORE MADNESS! MORE CHANCE FOR YOU FOR BRIBE US WITH WHAT LOS MARCOS LIKE BEST: BOOZE, WOMEN, AND FOUL PLAY. TWO DAY ONLY! OKTOBARE THREE AND 4. THEN GO HOEM AND CRY BECAUSE LOS MARCOS TOOK ALL PRIZE. YOU TRY BETTER NEXT TIME! HAHAHAHAH! HAHA IS JUST KIDDING. LOS MARCOS NO NEED MORE THINGS. WE HAS AVARYTHING WE WANT IN LOS MARCOSTAN. BUT MAYBE WE TAKE YOU WOMEN BACK AYNWAY. YOU NO SHOULD MISS LOS MARCOS MADNESS BECAUSE YOU REGREAT IT. BIKE POLO IT IS TRADITIONING SPORT OF LOS MARCOSTAN BECAUSE IT WAS INFENTED THERE, JUST LIKE OL KERNEL MARCOS INVANT BIKE FROM HALUSSINOGENIC FLAMSE OF MOUNT MARCOSTAN. NOW IT SO POPULAR EVRYWARE IT GO IN NEW YROK TIME ONCE AN WALL ST JERNEL WE THINK. IT SPORT OF FUTURE, JUST LIKE KICKPOXING. ¡VIVA!

And, now for a translation from our friend Ken Stanek, who has been a close observer of the Los Marcos Madness phenomena.... First of all, there's Bike Polo. If you've never heard of it, it's probably exactly what you think it is. It's got roots in the back lots of Seattle courier companies and 19th century Irish fields.

Then there's Los Marcos Polos. There's no rational explanation for them. They claim to have dominated the sport for somewhere between two years and two centuries. They appear infrequently, and sometimes only in rare footage captured by unknowing, camera weilding tourists. The only thing anyone knows for certain is that they throw the most ridiculous "tournament" anyone could imagine each October in New York City. Catch them and teams from as far away as Chicago, Ottawa, Richmond, East Vancouver, and Seattle this coming weekend at
Los Marcos Madness. For more information, visit http://www.losmarcospolos.com/

Where is Everyone?

2008-09-28T19:22:00.016-04:00

Seems like the blog's been quiet for about a week. Why? Just about everyone at Kryptonite was at Interbike - the big industry trade show. I was there this year to attend one and speak on another social media panel, as well as do a live Spokesmen show. It was a great time seeing some old friends.

There's so much to see there, but here are just a few of the things that I came across.

All the Spokesmen in one place!

Tim "Masiguy"Jackson, Tim Grahl, Richard "Fritz" Masoner, Carlton Reid, David Bernstein

Karen and Don catch up with Chipps Chippendale

Jelly Belly had a cool motorcycle in their booth. And, free Jelly Bellies.

The pros were there, too. Lance in the Oakley booth.

George Hincapie was at the show, too.

But, the never-ending lines were for Tyler Hamilton newly crowned national champ!

Karen and Gustavo welcomed David Bowman from Outdoor Gear Canada to the booth

Karen was a busy lady. She also talked with Megan Tompkins from Bicycle Retailer

Oh yea, there were bikes, too...like this Masi

And the Felt Bikes

And this way cool bike!

Interbike is also about dear friends. Here are three of mine all in one place!

Russ Denny, Tim Jackson, Christian Klempp

Happy World Carfree Day!

2008-09-22T15:29:00.002-04:00

http://www.worldcarfree.net/wcfd/

Cool organization! Check out their list of projects. Visit the site often. Think about having a carfree hour...then a carfree day...then a carfree weekend...then.....

Clean, Green, Riding Machine

2008-09-18T14:58:00.004-04:00

You may not be able to go too far before recharging, but the Enertia electric motorcycle is a beautiful way to be kind to the environment and look good on the commute in the process. Supposed to be hitting the street early next year. Order yours in advance! Check out the site.

Perewitz Bike Night Tonight

2008-09-17T08:43:00.002-04:00

It's a gorgeous day here in New England and promises to be a fantastic, Fall evening tonight. It's the perfect day/night for the last Perewitz Bike Night of the season.

Dave and Jody will be there. Eric will be there and I think you'll even see Tim.

Jody's got a ton of stuff to toss of the roof. I'm sure Dave will be a few folks to roll onto the burn out pad and, of course, there will be tons of bikes and people. It will be a fantastic night.

C'mon out and join the fun!

Burn After Reading Redux

2008-09-16T13:46:00.004-04:00

Yes, now I bet our competitors REALLY wished they were us! Some still shots of Brad Pitt in "Burn After eading"....Recognize anything in these pictures?? Yes, that's our very own New York Chain. Must confess that I haven't seen the movie yet myself, to know if these shots landed on cutting room floor, but I'm really motivated to go now.

Harley’s 105th Birthday

2008-09-16T11:21:00.002-04:00

by Jody Perewitz, Team Kryptonite

I had the liberty of attending Harley Davidson’s 105th Anniversary last month in Milwaukee. It was beautiful weekend weather wise. They could not have gotten better days. People and bikes were everywhere you went around Milwaukee.

I did a seminar with Sara Liberte at House of Harley on Friday. The crowd they had was awesome. I couldn’t believe for a Friday how busy they were. It was like a mini Sturgis. I figured with a slow economy and with numbers down at Sturgis it wouldn’t be that busy but I was proven wrong!

On Saturday and Sunday I was at Hal’s Harley-Davidson for Gina Wood’s All Women Bike Build. Sara and I joined Laura Klock and the crew from Gina Wood’s Open Road Radio to build a bike live on stage. Sara, Laura and I worked Saturday and Sunday on the rigid custom in front of a great crowd. People were asking questions, watching us, and listening to the funny antics of all of us on the microphone.

Gina, Dozer and Ideal Dave broadcasted live from Hal’s on Sunday. It was fun to listen to the chit chat with people. After the radio show the motorcycle roared to life. The motorcycle will be raffled with the proceeds the go to breast cancer.

After Sara and I were done at Hal’s we went on a drive by the factories with our great tour guides, Cindy from Biker Incite, her husband Mike and nephew Jake. We drove to one of the Harley factories in Franklin. I have to say it wasn’t what I expected but the next factory was!

We went to the Harley factory in Milwaukee. It was very cool, an old brick building with cool signs and architecture. Next we went to the HD museum. It was wicked cool! We didn’t get to go inside which I would have loved to do, because it was about 11pm but just seeing the outside and the cool sculpture by Jeff Decker was interesting. Milwaukee has a lot to offer beside Harley if you ever get a chance to go.

Overall it was a great trip to Ol’ Milwaukee, I am glad that I had the opportunity to go.

So Happy Birthday Harley-Davidson, HOG, and Hal’s!

Burn Your Computer After Reading This

2008-09-15T18:49:00.003-04:00

He he he...I bet our competitors are all wishing they were us now. Rumor has it that the latest Cohen brothers movie "Burn After Reading" has Brad Pitt speaking a line about a Kryptonite lock and a Bic pen. Hey, Messers Cohen and Pitt, that is such old, old news...get with the program. Our locks haven't had tubular cylinders for four years now....can't say that about some of our competitors though....oh wait, that's what happened! There was a typo in the script....Pitt was supposed to say the name....oops you almost got me to say it... :-)

Remembering Colin McRae

2008-09-15T08:44:00.005-04:00

Sir Colin McRae , August 5, 1968 ~ September 15, 2007

A year ago today, the racing world lost one of its greatest drivers. World Rally Champion Colin McRae perished in a helicopter crash with his son, Johnny and two family friends.

At the time, there were many, many tributes to Colin. My two favorites are this video and this string of photos from the X-Games. Then, of course, there is Travis Pastrana's tribute from this year's X-Games to his hero and friend.

If you are interested in Colin's racing history, I highly recommend the Colin McRae, Rally Legend DVD. There are some great clips throughout his career and commentary from Colin himself that was filmed a month before his untimely death. We watched it this weekend. It's truly wonderful.

It's hard to find the words other than to say, "You are missed, Mr. McRae."

sunday, Sunday, SUNDAY...and Saturday night

2008-09-13T18:17:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow's the first race for the Chase at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in New Hampshire. If you don't know what I'm talking about...it's NASCAR, of course! Yes, this self-proclaimed NASCAR Nut will be at the race. As long as Mother Nature cooperates, we'll be cheering from the grandstands in Loudon, NH.

Going to the race tomorrow reminds me that there is another race coming up in the not too distant future where you can see the Kryptonite folks. Like in the Spring, Kryptonite is the Official Motorcycle Parking Area at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, NC. The Bank of America 500 will be held on Saturday night October, 11 and the Kryptonite folks will be there.

If you live in the area and ride, bring your motorcycle. There's a special area in the front of the track for you to park. How do you find it? Look for the big yellow Kryptonite banners, of course.

So, cheer for your favorite driver tomorrow (and all through the Chase) and c'mon out and see the Kryptonite folks in October at LMS!

Go Hendrick Motorsports!!!

Nice Melon!

2008-09-10T13:55:00.004-04:00

Imagine getting an email with that in the subject line...your mind can go in different directions, right?? Well, that is how our dear friend, CF, sales sheppard for Earth, Wind and Rider (terrific cycling clothes - check 'em out!) chose to get my attention so I'd read his message about a Kryptonite lock siting in Budapest. Yes....that is a real melon on the rear rack....

Well, here's where he found the picture...really cool cycling blog...bookmark it if you haven't done so already....http://www.copenhagencyclechic.com/

He's Baaaack!!!

2008-09-09T23:47:00.003-04:00

Lance Armstrong is going to professionally ride again, folks. What has been rumored for a couple of days now has become official with today's Vanity Fair article. Lance talks about politics (a political run in 2014 is possible), The Lance Armstrong Foundation and returning to cycling. Look for him in the Tour "Day" France next year.

Wow.

Update: Video of Lance talking about his return.

Lessons Learned Updated

2008-09-09T15:18:00.004-04:00

I shared my sad news about my house break-in a couple weeks ago. Now, I'll share an update about lessons learned...another lesson that I should have learned; my husband loves to bring home surprises. After the break-in he decided a nice big dog would be part of the home security updates. Actually, she is still a little dog. We have named her Bella, a tip of the hat to the German Shepherd we had years ago named Shayna. Both names mean Beautiful. Bella is now 9 weeks old and weighed 13.4 pounds as of last weekend. The receptionist at the Vet’s laughed at my daughter and said, “You probably won’t be carrying her next time you come”.

So, my house being broken into will end up costing us more money than what was taken, but our getting Bella will pay us back a thousand times over. R.

Cyclin' For Life

2008-09-09T10:19:00.008-04:00

12th Annual Cycle for Life to benefit the Tufts Medical Center Floating Children's Cancer Center

by Rob Zuraski, Director of Engineering and NPD

Woke up at 4am Sat. morning to heavy downpours on the South Shore of Boston , along with news on the web site that the 50 mile ride was cancelled and everyone would do the 25 mile for safety reasons. I was drenched to the bone just loading up the bike and getting in my truck. Luckily by the time I was driving through Boston to the North Shore where the ride was scheduled, the rain let up and held off for the whole event. It was great to see past Kryptonite crew members and all the other riders and volunteers inspired to raise funds for this event. Thanks also to all the volunteers and police that helped man the route and the donors that supported us.

The ride started out at Devereaux Beach in Marblehead and wound up a beautiful coastal route to Singing Beach and back. Even more inspiring than the scenic route were the people I met along the way...
One woman I met had a daughter who lost her battle with cancer several years ago. This woman was back riding to support the hospital. Another guy I met passing each other a few times along the way told me at the end of the ride that he was a cancer survivor and had a huge section removed from his abdomen. Can't forget to mention he was riding a mountain bike and I was on my road bike! Even had a couple of kids along the way collecting for another cause in front of a store cheering me on and informed me that I was in 10th place (even thought it wasn't really a race!)...

Most of the riders and volunteers that I met seemed to be directly affected by the work done by the Floating hospital (hospital workers, cancer survivors, friends and families of children touched by the wonderful program) and have inspired me to make this an annual event..
Our team: Fast Foodies raised $7,911. So far, the web site says $127,579 total was raised for the event, but they mentioned $150k tally at the end of the event - its still not to late to donate!
www.cycleforlife.com
www.floatinghospital.org
http://www.tuftsmedicalcenter.org/

Special thanks to Peter and Ellen Zane, founding family members of Kryptonite who helped organize our team and the event.

Our Fast Foodies team consisted of previous/existing Kryptonite crew:
Peter Zane
Roby Holland
Rob Zuraski
Neil McDaid
Rosalie Garver
Eric Lightbody
Nadine Fallon
and a few other friends Peter recruited...

Get Out and Ride!

2008-09-08T11:08:00.004-04:00

by Roby Holland, National Sales Manager

I just came back from a very relaxing local vacation. I was supposed to have my brother visiting and the plans for his visit were golf, fishing then repeat. Unfortunately he was unable to make it so I changed my plans to spend my days with my family, which is more appealing. When you live in an area that has so much to offer it is hard to decide what to do.

I had been pushing my wife to get a bike all summer and she has been reluctant to do so because she was unsure she would like it. Unexpectedly, she asked if I would be interested in going down to Brewster, MA and rent a couple of bikes, to ride the bike trail. I was in! This was a great opportunity to spend sometime with the family and do something that I really enjoy. In the morning we headed to Cape Cod Rail Trail Bike and Kayak on our adventure. It was a great morning to do this, like a perfect early fall morning. We got our bikes, a trailer for Owen, my son,(attached to dad's bike ). I did a quick review with my wife of the bike components and how to use them. I tried to keep it as simple as I could so she would get the maximum enjoyment out of the ride.

Before we took off I grabbed a lunch from The Brewster Lunch Box then we headed off along the trail. I was apprehensive that my wife was going to have a difficult time adjusting to the new technology on these bikes. The last time she was on a bike was over ten years ago, in Ireland, and the bikes were equipped with 3-speed Strurmy Archer shifters and old school breaking. For about the first half mile I was tense and constantly asking how things were going. I even asked Owen to ask Mommy how thing were going. As only Owen could say it "Mamma how doin?" Mamma how doin?". To my surprise and relief she was enjoying it! Now, I could relax and enjoy the ride.

We rode for a while, passing lakes and cranberry bogs along the way. The bike path was in great shape, smooth and wide. There were plenty of people using the trail, bikers, runners, and in-line skaters. There was a ton of families like us. Owen was a little too quite while he was sitting in the trailer and now I had a new concern, my son's enjoyment. I had to investigate whether or not he was having a good time and the best way to do this with my son was to say "Peanut, Peanut butter ". If he was in a good mood I would hear him respond "JELLY" . So I got his attention and said "Peanut, Peanut butter" with no responses. Oh no, this is going to be a short ride. I tried it again a little louder this time "PEANUT, PEANUT BUTTER" and waited. A few seconds later he popped out "JELLY" and then " jazz hands". He was having a great time! He only says "jazz hands" when he is shaking his hands, which is an indication that he is really having a good time. I know I was having a great time and now the circle was complete.

We rode for several miles and then decided it was time to turn around. We wanted to have lunch at one of the lakes that we had passed on our way. Once we arrived at our destination we broke out the lunch and sat down to eat, but that was only for a brief second or two. The next thing I heard out of my son's mouth was "DUCKY, DUCKY" and "Owen down please, Owen down please" He wanted to go play in the water with the ducks. How could I say "NO", he was having fun and so was I. So we played in the water and fed the ducks and just relaxed. We took a few photos to remember the day and headed back to the bike shop. By the way awesome sandwich from The Lunch Box!!!!! Once we got the bikes back, and our helmets and stuff in the car we headed home. As I watched my son drift off to sleep on the ride back I thought about how awesome that day was and how much fun I had with my family. I would recommend to anyone in the area, take the family to ride the trail and stop by Cape Cod Rail Trail Bike and Kayak, as well as The Lunch Box while you're at it!

And The Winner Isssssssssssssssss.....

2008-09-05T15:47:00.002-04:00

Its Friday afternoon and time to announce the winner of our contest to help Tim Clifford figure out how to keep his new Stratocaster secure. While we heard some interesting ideas, both through the blog and around the watercooler, the winning ideas come from blogguest tom iv....He offered meaningful suggestions on how accessories that come with our R4 and L2 locks (usually used as ski locks) can be used to help Tim navigate his way through an evening at his local pub, of course along with suggestions of how to use the lock itself to keep the guitar safe. Congrats tom! Watch for your prize coming to a mailbox near you.

More Kudos to Kona

2008-09-04T14:11:00.003-04:00

I just read the news in BikeBiz.com that this month Kona Bicycles will be donating another 100 Africabikes to the WWF's (World Wildlife Fund) water projects in Tanzania, Africa. Since 2005 Kona has been giving away thousands of bikes to African healthcare workers and others involved in humanitarian projects such as these water projects.

For more information about their program, check out http://www.konabiketown.com/.

Wasn't This Done Before??

2008-09-03T12:21:00.004-04:00

I wonder if anyone shared the idea of the Segway with the Toyota designers?
If we can't get more bike lanes, how will we ever be able to share the roads and sidewalks with more of these?!? Well, anyway, entertain yourself for a few minutes by checking this out....

http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/personal-transport-robots-toyota-winglet/

Kryptonite in SoHo on TMZ

2008-08-30T19:21:00.004-04:00

Check out this TMZ tidbit. Forget Gerard Butler. Forget the girl. Check out what's keeping the bicycle safe...that's right, a Kryptonite Evolution Mini. We wouldn't expect anything less in NYC!

Guitar Man

2008-08-29T14:23:00.004-04:00

This weekend marks the beginning of a new unbreakable bond between Tim Clifford, our director of sales, and his new pride and joy Fender Stratocaster.... So that he doesn't lose any sleep over keeping it safe, I thought it would be a good idea for you to weigh in with your ideas about how to secure it, using any combination of Kryptonite locks, cables, chains you think appropriate. Come on, let's hear from you! The most creative idea will win a Kryptonite cable lock to lock up some precious of your own...Winner will be announced next Friday, September 5th.

Take Lance Armstrong's Dare

2008-08-29T07:14:00.003-04:00

Just saw that Lance Armstrong is daring YOU! And you don't even have to get on a bike. This is for everyone. Share your story in video with Livestrong.com

He wants to know how you dared to change your life or someone else's life. The top 12 will be shown on YouTube and Livestrong.com

Go on, Lance dares you to make a change! At Kryptonite we know that our customers and friends make a difference every day. We know many of you have made huge positive changes in your life and others have helped to change someone else's life for the better. Show the world. Show Lance. Deadline is September 8, 2008.

Go on...WE dare you, too!

Time To Break This Bond

2008-08-27T09:30:00.002-04:00

Saw my beloved Rolling Stones (yes, I'll admit it) in the Scorcese film "Shine the Light" last night. I hate to admit it but its time for me to break the bond and time for the guys to retire. Better to have gotten out when they were on top....oh well, at least there was some killer Buddy Guy guitar work in it.

Kids Don't Do This At Home

2008-08-26T15:15:00.004-04:00

After my beloved fixie went missing from campus a few weeks back, I decided to invest in your company. I got your lock in the mail today, and I'm afraid that it needed a little personal touch. I hope your not offended with my 'upgrade' - but I just couldn't run around campus with a stock'er - even if it's just the lock. JSM, Lincoln, NE

J, we'll just ask everyone to cut us a little slack for language that's a little saltier than we normally use here, because we probably all have to agree that if we're really truthful, we'd say the exact same thing if we were in your shoes!

PS - We're happy to report that the police found J's bike at a local pawn shop and he's going to be reunited with it today!

Roby's Ruminations on Life, Etc.

2008-08-25T11:36:00.004-04:00

by Roby Holland, National Sales

Heavy title, I know, but really just some random thoughts, observations and comments about the last couple days.

R & B...Ridin' and Bondin'
Last Friday Kryptonite participated in a Bike to Work Day event in Boston, put on by the Mayor's office in an effort to get people to ride their bikes to work. The morning was awesome and made me think about how I wanted to get on my bike and go out for a morning ride after I was done with this event. The event was well attended by many teams and individuals who rode from different locations around the area. The organizers had coffee, bagels and fruit for the people who rode in and a radio station playing some good tunes for us to pass the time. I had a chance to speak with some people I had not seen in a while and catch up on what they were up to. I had a great time at this event and I look forward to the next time Kryptonite is asked to participate.

The Fishin' Blues
Last year was the first time I was able to take the Regional Managers out fishing after our annual sales meeting. This year I was only able to take one of the guys out because our other RM had a presentation to do in Canada. The morning was cool, much cooler then I had expected. I set out earlier to catch some bait for us to use. After a while of casting with little success, I tucked in my pride and went over to our local bait boat to purchase $20 worth of pogies. We would use these to catch The Monster Bass that I had promised Craig. After getting the fish into the bait well I made my way back to the dock to pick up Craig. We motored out to Gurnet Point, the area where I had several successful hook-ups with large linesiders. I gave Craig the lowdown on the fishing equipment. We each hooked a pogie and let them go. No luck...Well, after a few hours we decided to try several other locations with similar luck. Finally the tide began to turn and started to come back in. We headed out to a rip that I had luck with and knew would yield a fish, but not sure what. Once again I baited a hook for Craig, he cast and we let it swim out several yards. It didn’t take long for Blue Fish to get a hold of the bait. Craig had a fish finally. As he brought the fish along side, the Blue’s teeth cut through the leader and was gone. After several hook-ups and several bite offs, I decided that it was time to go across the bay and try our luck near Providence Town. I wanted Craig to get a hoagie, on a pogie and thought it was the place for that to happen. The trip took us twenty minutes to and it was just perfect. We threw our bait out and let the games begin. Wouldn’t you know it, not more then fifteen minutes later Craig had another fish onthe line, but it was a Blue Fish. Fortunately, I took the time to build some wire leaders in case these guys showed up again. We were able to get this one into the boat and released with minimal damage. Over the course of the next few hours we had several looks but no takers and ended up leaving with no Stripers. I had a blast and really enjoyed the time just hanging out with Craig, not doing much but fishing. I hope to get him on the boat again next year with better results.

What Time Is It?
Uniforms, foliage, double sessions and drop off are a few of the words we are beginning to hear in daily conversations. Summer is almost over and I have not ridden as much as I was planning.. It just seems that life is moving faster then I want or like. It was only a few weeks ago I was laying out my plans to go on a ride every morning I was home this summer. We’ll that did not work out so well. So, I have laid out my plan for the remainder of the summer and into the fall. If I learned anything this summer, it was that time does not slow down, it only speeds up. How was your summer?

Happiness Is.....

2008-08-24T15:51:00.002-04:00

You just gotta give yourself a treat and watch this video. Humans are pretty cool after all!
Thank you, Matt Harding....

http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap080722.html

Lessons Learned

2008-08-21T09:00:00.001-04:00

I have been with Kryptonite for almost 15 years, working in Customer Service. One of the unfortunate occurrences that Customer Service has to deal with is Bike Theft. Any type of theft is indeed a personal violation, and unfortunately it became all too personal to me last week.

I arrived home from work to find that my house had been broken into. Some small electronics were stolen. Ah, but let me talk about the jewelry….. My mother’s ring, which she inherited from my father’s mother….gone. That was the deepest cut of all. Also many other pieces of jewelry, jewelry received from my husband throughout our many years of marriage. My husband and daughter also lost jewelry. And no pictures and no receipts for that jewelry.

Other “things” were stolen; tote bags, a bike messenger bag, some antique sterling silver knick knacks that were also passed down from my parents. No receipts, no pictures…..no proof of ownership.

There is so much to be grateful for; no one was hurt, my “watch cats”, though ineffective, hid well and are safe.

My sense of security is gone. Thinking of my house as a safe haven….gone.

My advice to all: If you have any “thing” that is important to you or would be expensive to replace, take pictures of the items and the receipts. Keep them in a safe deposit box.

Security is my business. And I have to tell myself what I have told many before. We do the best we can to deter the thievery, but if someone wants something bad enough, they’re gonna get it!

Hmmm, I wonder how the watch cats would feel about a nice, big dog.

R.

Go Redline's Olympic "Great Eight"

2008-08-19T18:06:00.001-04:00

Kryptonite wishes our Redline friends the best as they watch to see how their "Great Eight" BMXers do tonight. Don't forget to watch BMX history in the making tonight...around 8ish pm for everyone watching from the states.