With more state funds pledged towards better bike lanes, hitting the road on your fixte or speedracer has never been more appealing. Stephanie Stefanovic presents Sydney Observer’s guide to modern biking – with all of the latest bells and whistles!
Have you ever wanted to take up cycling, but were put off by the gut-wrenching thought of travelling in traffic? Good news! Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian has announced that over $40 million will be spent on new walking and cycling paths across NSW. So if you haven’t considered cycling yet, now’s the time to start. Not only is cycling a great way to keep fit, but it’s also a good way to relax or even to beat the traffic on the way to work. If you still need more convincing, here are some stylish bikes and accessories to inspire you to get on your bike.
Vintage Ladies 7-Speed Lite Bike – $349
A cute bike doesn’t have to break the bank. Not only is this bike adorable, but it’s also practical for leisurely cruising and commuting. The low frame of this bike will allow you to step on gracefully and with ease, and to ride in all sorts of clothing. The bike also has 7-speed gears, which means that travelling will always be a breeze. No need to worry about hills or headwinds! Best of all, this bike is heavily customisable. Colours include baby blue, aqua, coffee, mint green, watermelon and black. There’s also the choice between a small or large frame, as well as the option of a vintage basket.
http://www.reidcycles.com.au/reid-vintage-ladies-7-speed-lite.html#sizeguide
Reid Wayfarer – $399
Ride in style and sophistication with this classically-finished retro bike. The Reid Wayfarer has been designed for outstanding quality and durability, whilst also maintaining a stylish exterior. It’s perfect for both commuting and leisure, with remarkable functionality and high quality modern components. The frame is available in small, medium and large, and colours include chrome, grey/blue and midnight plum.
http://www.reidcycles.com.au/wayfarer.html
Belle Helmets Hand-Painted Sunset – $150
With this unique, one-of-a-kind bicycle helmet, you can experience the sunset all day long! The helmet is hand-painted and sealed, so you can be assured that the image is protected from water and scratches. You can get this and many other beautiful and unique helmets at Eleanor’s. Hand-made in the USA, these helmets are incredibly cool as far as helmets go, and will inspire you to get on your bike every day!
http://www.eleanorsnyc.com/collections/helmets/products/belle-helmets-hand-painted-sunset
Oopsmark Bicycle Wine Rack – $45
Can’t be without your wine? Well now you’ll never have to be with the Oopsmark Bicycle Wine Rack. This sophisticated leather wine-holder is guaranteed to keep your bottle firmly in place with its adjustability and hidden clamping system. It is also handmade in Montreal from vegetable-tanned leather, which means it will become even more beautiful with age.
http://www.eleanorsnyc.com/collections/small-accessories/products/oopsmark-bicycle-wine-rack
Bike Wheel Lights – $17.10
Increase your visability in style with these stylish wheel lights, available in your favourite colours. These wheel lights are sturdy and easy to install, with no tools necessary and batteries included. Available colours include blue, pink and purple, however there is the option to customise your order and choose whichever colour you’d like. If you’re in to Eurotrash, Sydney Observer highly recommends a bit of wheel-bling.
Bike Skirt Guard – $50.17
Add some colour to your wheels with one of these gorgeous skirt guards. Not only are they beautiful, but they’re also functional! Skirt guards allow you to ride your bike freely without worrying about your clothing getting caught in the spokes. This particular skirt guard will fit a range of sizes and is machine-washable. FrillRide on Etsy is the seller of this and many other stylish skirt guards. They’re handmade and one-of-a-kind, so get them before they’re gone!
https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/192213552/bicycle-accessories-fuchsia-bike-skirt?ref=market
Six Corners Handlebar Bag – $40
Never neglect to carry your essentials again with this handlebar bag from Po Campo. The bags are available in an array of colours and patterns, and can be converted into a long strap cross-body bag once you’re off your bike. The bags are made from vegan materials that are both weatherproof and reflective. So not only are these bags stylish and functional, but they’re ethical too!
http://shop.pocampo.com/collections/bike-bags/products/six-corners-handlebar-bag
Parrot Bicycle Squeeze Horn – $11
Always wanted a bike horn shaped like a parrot? We’re sure you have. Let everyone know you’re coming by squeezing the parrot to emit a high-pitched honk.
http://www.99bikes.com.au/accessories-kids-cycle-horn-pet-parrot