Charleston Cycle Chic » Tips

Listen to the words…

Kristin B. Walker — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 22:28:03 +0000

I love this video – found it today on Twitter. While the images are beautiful – it is the words that are important. Listen. Know why you do what you do. Isn’t that the zest of life?

I am loving Couture Cruiser’s bike basket liners

Kristin B. Walker — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:11:44 +0000

Check these out – in such pretty colors and the best thing is, they turn into a tote bag! Perfect for the market, the beach or just cruisin’ chic around town. Now if only someone would come up with panniers in a great fabric.

Visit the Couture Cruiser site to see more.

Another local Cycle Chic Inspiration…

Kristin B. Walker — Thu, 28 May 2009 14:58:09 +0000

In a market on Wentworth St, my eyes were drawn to this photo announcing the launch of the oh-so-fabulous readCharlie – an online mag celebrating progressive culture in Charleston. How can you not love her hat, her blue high heels and that great basket on the back of her bike? You can get yourself one (the basket, not the girl) at The Bicycle Shoppe on Meeting St. Tres chic!

What ever should I wear on the Charleston Cycle Chic ride?

Kristin B. Walker — Tue, 12 May 2009 19:02:27 +0000

How about these?

No really. Maybe not those (though I’d be very impressed if you tried) but you CAN wear heels and be comfortable. I do all the time. And a pretty skirt, or a bathing suit, or long pants and a turtleneck, or even (dare I say) spandex. Whatever in the world floats your boat. Because even though this IS about Cycle Chic – it’s really just about ridin’ pretty and as you already know, what makes you feel phenomenal is what works.

You can be assured however, that I’ll be sporting a pair of high-heel coral-colored patent-leather honeys. Shazaam!

How could I forget…The Skirt/Coat Guard

Kristin B. Walker — Wed, 06 May 2009 13:17:36 +0000

I could be forgiven easily….While the skirt/coat guard is standard in Europe, it is ne’er to be seen in the US (WHY?). But don’t despair…there is one bike available made by Electra (go check them out at Mike’s Bikes on Folly Road) for both men and women that sports a snazzy guard. I think I need one. It’s called the Amsterdam. How apropos.

Then there’s always the option to make your own. Here’s how to do it. Show me how!

Photo courtesy of Electra Bikes.

I think someone in Charleston needs to open a Cycle Chic Shop.

Pretty Please?

What kind of bike do I need to cycle chic?

Kristin B. Walker — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:13:40 +0000

It’s not about the bike.

It’s not about how much money you spend or what brand you buy. Any bike will do. Whether you have to have the latest Cynthia Rowley or just painted that vintage Schwinn you bought off Ebay in a color that makes you happy – it’s about how you carry yourself. You know…with that certain ‘je ne sais quoi” that makes a woman a WO-man.

Confidence. Pride. Grace.

Having said that – there are a few key parts of that bike that will make your life easier and increase the flexibility of your Cycle Chic wardrobe to almost anything.

1. Fenders – a must for when you go through puddles. Ever seen those racers with a dark line up their back? Not pretty. But fenders are.

2. Female-friendly frame – this means the cross bar is down low so you can swing your foot over with ease. Having to do some sort of kung-fu leg circle kick to get on your bike just doesn’t work in a skirt. Plus, it allows you to practice the still-in-motion quick and graceful dismount.

3. Cruiser/Town bike style – allows you to sit fairly upright and has semi-fat tires so you don’t feel all the road lumps and bumps as you ride to work.

4. Flat pedals – with these, you can wear any kind of shoe. Perfect for meeting your friends up for dinner and drinks.

5. A basket – how else are you going to carry your fresh bread and organic vegetables home from the Marion Square Farmer’s Market?

6. A rear rack – this goes over your back tire and fender. You never know when it will come in handy – and if you decide it’s time to buy some cute panniers, this is where they go.

7. A lock – you WILL fall in love with your bike, so save yourself some agony and tissues and get a good one to keep it safe.

So check out this Cycle Chic Chick (courtesy of the Copenhagen Cycle Chic blog). Could she be more fabulous?

What is your favorite bike? Send in some pics!