Smoking and cycling now seems like an odd combination, but in 1939, Player's cigarettes released a series of bicycle themed tobacco cards. This one shows a rare compact Velocino bicycle from Italy. The gentleman on the bike is holding a lit cigarette while riding one handed. A couple of interesting period cars can be seen in the background. There is a series of 50 cards that were released this year, as well as an album available for display and storage. Full descriptions are printed on the reverse. These cards are often available for purchase on eBay. About $2 to $5 per card.

Kudos to George!

Some of us watched history yesterday. Kudos to George Hincapie on your final stage win yesterday at the AMGEN Tour of California. A day of hell pays off, for these superheros descending on soaking wet roads. You deserved it, what a gutsy move on the last lap. Seemed like the break of five was gone, you attacked and survived, making the stage win legendary. I am more motivated than ever to train on these stormy days. The worst weather often brings out the best riders. Photo link.

Remembering the 80s...Countach

Remember the 80s? Back when I was in high school, I had a nice big poster of the Countach that I used to look at everyday, which must have influenced me in eventually becoming an industrial designer. Said poster was an Alpine stereo promotion, which I paid $25 for, much to the disliking of my father. Apparently this edgy bad boy Lambo was official pace car for the 1980-83 FIA Grand Prix of Monte Carlo. This photo comes from the Lamborghini registry. http://www.lamborghiniregistry.com/
I still get excited when I see one...although I much prefer the Miura SV now.

Folding bicycle wheel

Interesting concept. Perhaps, tubulars could make a resurgence, as they will for 29ers, (but that's another post). Obviously standard clincher tires could not work for this application. Maybe a modified Tufo?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlRt3YOl00c

One problem would be using the rim as a brake track. The hinges would interrupt the surface. Another issue, as I just hinted at, would be how to safely attach a tire. Even a tubular would be problematic, with no glue zones at four point on the rim. The stress from folding would blow the tire, if not deflated first... and constant folding at the two corners would cause the tire casing to fail prematurely. Maybe a new type of tire needs to be developed to support the design.