Bike Jax

Hitler on Jax Advocacy & Tweed

2012-01-25T12:42:00.000-05:00

Join us on the Inaugural Jacksonville Tweed Ride.

Koula Gets Her Groove On

2012-01-12T14:27:00.000-05:00

Bike Jax has been growing steadily over the last 4 years and while that growth has meant more time spent in meetings about bikes and parking bikes than actually blogging about bikes. It has also meant meeting a greater number people that want to get involved with bicycle advocacy. I'm happy to post this intro written by Koula Redmond, Bike Jax's newest board member as Bike Jax is moving to non-profit status.

Koula is a local Potter who is currently setting shop in the new CoRK Arts District and will be a contributing writer here along with Abhishek which most of you already know from here and most recently from here.

How I got Started
By Koula Redmond

When I first got into biking as an adult, I wasn’t even aware that all these different kinds of styles of bicycling existed. I started riding a beach cruiser style bike around the neighborhood, but wasn’t comfortable riding in the road; when my husband wanted to try trail riding, I tried too and quickly realized it wasn’t for me. I loved being on two wheels, but the dirt and tree roots was just not my thing. It wasn’t until I started riding a road bike on a paved trails that I got really comfortable riding a bike as an adult. Finally I found a bike that was comfortable and that fit my tiny frame and I discovered that I actually kind of liked riding a bike. I started riding the Jacksonville/Baldwin Rail Trail more often and I got accustomed to starting and stopping with some semblance of gracefulness, and also learned to hold a line while controlling my speed. At the few intersections with cars, I grew accustomed to interfacing with traffic once and awhile, too. But, riding on a trail and seeing the same scenery started to get to me. Chucking my bike in the back of my car became a hassle. So, I started riding around my neighborhood on my road bike. I explored my neighborhood and the ones surrounding it by not really having a destination in mind; sometimes I consulted a map, and I would stay within reasonable distance of my house, but I loved being able to wander to wherever looked interesting.

Pretty soon, riding to a destination close to home within the urban core became the norm, but the road bike started becoming less and less practical when I started carrying my heavy laptop in a messenger bag, or when I thought about doing a quick grocery run. At this point, I stumbled upon and started devouring the Copenhagenize and Cycle Chic blogs, and it was all over- I really wanted a dutch-style bike. Step-through frame, basket, fenders, internal hub, generator lights, rear rack-- yes, please! Most of all, I wanted a bike that would allow me to sit up straight so my neck and wrists would get a break during longer rides. So, I did some research and ordered a Pashley Princess Sovereign sight unseen from the fine bike-loving gents at Nest Living.

I was in love with this new freedom bicycling afforded me. I would take little trips to the local cafés with my laptop and my knitting project, or make a quick run to the grocery store. It started to make sense to replace my little neighborhood car trips with the bike, and eventually I just got into the habit of parking my car in the driveway for the entire weekend. Every Saturday, my post work-week treat became a nice ride to the Riverside Arts Market. I would go alone usually, and enjoy the early morning fresh air and quiet, leisurely ride. One of the biggest perks of going to RAM was parking at the Bike Valet, where I knew my (new, expensive-for-me) bike was safe. One day, I realized the valet was quite busy, and only one guy was running it. So, I asked Matt if he needed help, showed up a couple weeks later, and have been helping out almost every Saturday since then.

The more I used cycling as a means to get from point A to point B, the more I started noticing that there were some aspects of bicycling as transportation in Jacksonville that were less than optimal. Like how biking around Jacksonville isn’t so easy if you step a foot outside the urban core. One almost need balls of steel to ride vehicularly in Jacksonville, and must not mind sharing personal space with car traffic. So, I started reading more, and every Saturday I’d ask Matt more questions. Instead of answering me directly, he usually suggested that I read some more or read something different, and those answers were perfect. The more I read, the more I wanted to help with this enigmatic thing called bicycle advocacy. When I started riding a bike more and more, I never expected for bikes to become such a large part of my life. But, that’s where I come from and the rest, they say, is history!

Velocity Now Taking Applications in Jax

2011-12-21T16:41:00.000-05:00

I just heard from Velocity Headquarters in Grand Rapids and they are now officially accepting resume's for the wheel manufacturing operations here in Jacksonville. Here is the info as I received it:

"We’ll be conducting interviews in Jacksonville during the last week of January. Please send resumes to matt@velocityusa.com. We’ll be calling for interviews next week. We are in need of skilled workers with strong mechanical aptitude who can perform precision assembly of bicycle rims, as well as packaging, sorting, cleaning and general factory work. Positions start in February and are full time with flexible hours. Benefits available"

Where will they be located? Le's just say, if you're in the Urban Core, it's a very easy commute by bike or even foot. This is a really big feather in the cycling community to have such an outstanding company as Velocity manufacturing their wheels here. Get your resume in soon.

Bike Valet + Passive Advocacy = Economic Impact

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

The third season of the Bike Jax Bike Valet at Riverside Arts Market (RAM) just concluded this past Saturday. It has taken 3 years, but I actually think folks have finally started figuring out how much easier and more convenient it is to ride a bike to the market than it is to drive and find parking.

I've mentioned this in prior posts, but the goal of the bike valet is simply to provide the infrastructure and let people figure it out on their own. No proselytizing about what to ride, how to ride, or what to wear. Each season, more and more people are figuring it out and this year we have doubled the number bikes parked over the previous year. Not only have we double the amount of bikes parked, we have noticed that the majority of those bikes now sport baskets, racks, and panniers to carry their haul of fresh veggies and local art home.

The idea of passive advocacy is a simple one. Give the public a popular destination with safe and secure bicycle parking, and they will come. Our thought in the beginning was that if we got folks to ride their bikes to RAM on Saturdays, they will eventually notice they are passing the grocery story, the drug store, and schools, along with all their favorite places to dine. The added benefit is that many are also able to see their work place in downtown from the site of RAM under the Fuller Warren Bridge and figure out that bike commuting to work is a real possibility. And you know what happened? Just as the majority of bikes now have some way to carry cargo, those people are using the lowly bicycle to run their daily errands instead of getting in a car. There's actually a rush hour on the Northbank Riverwalk along the banks of the St Johns now between Riverside/Avondale and Downtown. Admittedly, it's a small rush hour, but it's there and growing.

The bike valet has grown from an operation that one person could comfortably run, and now requires a multitude of volunteers. With all those new volunteers we were able to brach out of RAM and provide free and securing bike valet services for the Jacksonville Film Festival and the SORBAJax Movie event.

The numbers? We parked 3393 bikes this season. Of those parked 78% left the market with some type of purchase. A percentage of those that didn't have packages with them when they left, were there just for lunch from one of the many food vendors. So we roughly figure the bike valet brought in an economic impact of just under $34,000. We are basing those figures on every person parking a bike spending $10 either on food, art or fresh veggies from the farmers. Some of you may point out that some of the money would be there if the bike valet wasn't there, and sure, it would. In questioning regular users of the bike valet if having it made a difference in how often they visited the market, each person replied that they would still visit by car, just not nearly as often.

Those numbers may look small in print, but the I'm sure the effect of those numbers on the the artists, farmers, and food venders made a huge difference in their pockets.

I would take this opportunity to thank everyone that volunteered. The success of the bike valet program couldn't work without you guys and gals.

I also need to thank the sponsors of the bike valet this year. Without your support we could never have even opened the bike valet. Thank you.

Intuition Ale Works

Nest-Living

Personalized Bike Plates

Lakeshore Bicycles & Fitness

Bicycle Clinic

Here is short little recap of a few of the people and bikes we met this year. Thank you all for a very successful year. We're looking forward to a much more busy 2012!

How Young is Too Young? Who is to Blame When it Goes Bad?

2011-11-28T14:47:00.001-05:00

Saturday Evening (Nov. 26) 13 year old Brien Alvezios was killed riding his bike along Branan Field Road in Clay County. The driver fled the scene, Florida Highway Patrol are searching for the driver and if you have any information please contact FHP.

As per usual, comments on the Times-Union Article point at the cyclist as the fault. Despite the article providing little to no information other than location, time of incident, and that the driver fled the scene (no details at all are given about the young cyclist other than his age and condition), there is a fair amount of questioning as to why a teenager is out riding his bike at night. But one comment left on the Bike Jax Facebook has haunted me since I read it. The comment that sent shivers down my spine was, "Maybe they'll charge his parents." I instantly recalled articles from earlier this year where parents were threatened with removal by Child Protective Services for allowing their child to ride a bike to school. Or the Atlanta mother charged with Vehicular Homicide when her child was struck and killed while they attempted to cross a 4 lane highway without crosswalks. Yes, lets put the blame on the parents for inadequately designed roads.

SInce we don't have completed details and all the information, we are left to assumptions. So let's assume this young cyclist did everything correctly. He was wearing a helmet (required by FL law for those under 16), was wearing light colored clothing ( not required by FL law for any age), had both front & rear lights, was controlling the lane since the lane is of substandard width as pictured below. (F.S. 316.2065)

I have yet to find any law or statute governing what time of day or night a parent can or cannot allow a child to ride his/her bike. Assuming that this young man did everything correctly given the situation, who is at fault? The driver who fled the scene most certainly is. But are they alone in blame? The parents for allowing their child to ride a bike at night? The child himself?....Maybe we should look deeper into who's really at fault.

First and foremost in my mind is FDOT. They designed and maintain the road. Utility poles are usually a very good indicator right-of-ways. Notice the amount of room on the right side of this road for any type of infrastructure in the way bike lanes, multi-use path, or even sidewalk that may have prevented this tragedy. But I'm willing to bet that extra space is being reserved for additional travel lanes. Because it's far more important to move cars than people.

Second is the County itself for allowing this road to built in the manor it is, without regard to pedestrians or cyclists.

But, are these agencies really to blame? Perhaps if city, county and state governments hands weren't tied by something that within the road planning and design groups is known simply as, "The Manual." To the laymen it's the The MUTCD or the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. This manual dictates every part of your driving habits and experience on every road you travel on. There is almost nothing contained in it that cover bicycle infrastructure and the safety of cyclist or pedestrians. This manual is completely about the movement of the automobile. Maybe the blame should be laid on the purveyors of this Manual.

Maybe the blame should be spread around? Maybe a little goes to Club Riders, vehicular cyclists and the Florida Bicycle Association. Club riders and vehicular cyclists for fighting any type of cycling infrastructure that will take them off the road and keeping children them. FBA for not doing enough to promote cycling as transportation and it's continued support of bicycles as recreation and toys along with the promotion of the culture of fear.

Maybe the the blame goes even deeper, maybe we should take a look at the colleges and universities that teach our planners, designers and engineers to be manual reading zombies who are incapable of thinking outside of the box.

I do know one thing for sure, the family of Brien Alvezios have suffered a great loss as has all the friends and families of everyone who has lost someone to bad or inattentive drivers or lacking road design. And it will continue to happen until cities, counties and state governments wake the hell up and design infrastructure to move people and not cars.

If better design isn't put into our roads we will be reading more of this ☞ recent study shows every death on america's road 2001 - 2009.

I'm aware that I am opening a can of worms with some of my statements above. But I do so in the hopes of creating a dialog. Let's talk about it, who is or isn't at fault for this and all other tragic losses of life while using our roadways? Who's to blame for the current state of bicycling culture and the total lack of infrastructure for both cyclists and pedestrians? How young is too young ride a bike alone on our streets?

Velocity Moving Wheel Production to Jacksonville

2011-11-09T13:47:00.000-05:00

I'm a couple of days behind in reading Bike Jax emails and boy was this a nice one to open.

"November 7, 2011

VELOCITY RIMS TO BE MADE IN THE USA

(Grand Rapids, MI) Brothers and partners, Tom and John Black will begin manufacturing rims in Jacksonville, Florida in February 2012. Currently, all Velocity rims are made in Australia, and production will cease in Brisbane by the end of November.

Tom Black, the founder of Velocity, will be relocating from Australia to Florida where he will continue to oversee rim production at Velocity’s new manufacturing factory. Velocity’s distribution center will continue to operate out of Grand Rapids, Michigan as it has since 1992 and become their worldwide headquarters; with the Australian facility remaining as a distribution center for the Asian and Australian markets.

Velocity will be the only U.S. produced aluminum rim in the cycling industry. John Black, president of Velocity Worldwide, Inc., anticipates this to further propel the company as a leader in quality, ingenuity and customization customers have come to love and expect from Velocity."

I don't have any further details as of yet. I have left voice mail and sent emails for more info and as soon as I do get some more info I'll up date this post. This is great news for Jacksonville and the bicycle community.

Free Bike Valet & Free Movies @ Jacksonville Film Festival

2011-10-09T22:13:00.001-04:00

I usually run within two circles in Jacksonville, one is of course the cycling community and the other is the arts. Lucky, there is a lot of spill over within both groups. Unluckily, Jacksonville places about as little importance on arts and culture as it does on bicycling infrastructure. One of the very few bright stars in the Jacksonville skyline for the last 9 years is the Jacksonville Film Festival (JFF).

As an Urban Core event, Bike Jax has teamed up JFF to offer free bike valet parking at the 3 main JFF film Venues, San Marco Theater, Florida Theater and 5 Points Theater. We have 60 hours of volunteer time to fill during those films and are in desperate need of you to give a us hand beginning this Thursday Oct. 13th and thru Sunday Oct. 16th.

You get something out of it also. Not only will you be helping to promote bicycles as transportation, for every 3 hour shift volunteers get admission to a screening or workshop of their choice. For 12 hours of volunteer service you get an All Access Pass which get you into everything the festival offers, Screening, Workshops and Parties.

The festival staff is also in dire need of volunteers also. Why not give us two 3 hours shifts and the JFF two 3 hours shifts and get yourself an all access pass to one of the best events in this city.

If you're not inclined to volunteer, please make plans to come out and support this very important event. We encourage all of you to bike to the venues and park with us. The Bike valet will offer the same quality at the film venues that you have come to expect from us at the Riverside Arts Market. For every bike parked you will receive a free pint of beer compliments of Intuition Ale Works or free Ice Cream from Florida Creamery in Avondale.

We need volunteers for the following days, locations and times: Shifts are broken into 3 hours blocks.

Thursday Oct. 13th:

San Marco Theater: 3pm to 10pm

Friday Oct. 14th:

5 Points Theater: 9am to 2am (☜not a typo)

Saturday Oct. 15th:

Here's where it gets tricky: 3 venues total

Riverside Arts Market: 9am to 5pm

San Marco Theater: 9am to 2pm

Florida Theater: 12pm to 11pm

Sunday Oct. 16th:

5 Points Theater: 9am to 7pm

If you're interested in volunteering contact me via email with days and times you can help by Wednesday Evening Oct. 12th. Together we can make difference.

Riverside Cyclist Hit by Bus - Video

2011-10-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, September 7th, Bike Jax Board Member Abhishek Mukherjee got on his Xtracycle and left his Riverside apartment as he had done thousands of times before. This time however, his ride was going to be just a little bit different. Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) bus #2105 would see to that. Bike Jax has obtained a copy of the video from the bus's cameras. We are posting it here not as a platform for vengeance, but simply to show how vulnerable cyclists are as vehicles and most of us most likely already know the feeling of being buzzed too uncomfortably close by a JTA bus. Despite our many attempts to contact JTA for information on driver training and education concerning cyclists, we have come up empty. With the best of intentions, we have chosen to post this video in the hopes that maybe public response might encourage better driver training pertaining to cyclists. Audio portions of the video have been removed to lessen its severity.

Abhishek left from his apartment towards Downtown on Riverside Ave and as usual, a stickler for the rules, he took control of the extra narrow lane on Riverside Avenue. He could hear the JTA bus approaching in the distance behind him and making its normal stops. 5 blocks later he stopped at the red stop signal at the intersection of Riverside Ave and Computer Power. (Intersection in front of RAM, Google lists as Gilmore St. but not so) As he waited for the signal to change, the bus was sitting directly behind him. Once the light changed, he proceeded through the intersection where Riverside Ave. prepares to widen to a 14 foot lane. As it was rush hour traffic and knowing the lane would widen he can clearly be seen in the video moving closer to the lane-edge-marking but never giving up the lane. JTA bus #2105 never wavered in the slightest from it's path and never made any attempt to provide the State mandated 3 foot clearance while passing.

JTA hit the wrong guy, Abhishek not only knows and can recite each and every statute pertaining to cycling, he actually knows how those laws are interpreted and applied. Fortunately, he never lost consciousness and could recall every detail of the incident. Most times the cyclist isn't so lucky and authorities are left hearing only on side of the story. This time that would not be the case; no "he suddenly veered in front of me", no "I never saw him", no "he came out of nowhere and just hit me" (which is what the driver told authorities). Abhishek also has another very useful resource, attorney Chris Burns. Chris is without a doubt the most knowlegeable and skilled cycling counsel in the Southeast.

The Jacksonville Sheriffs office found the driver at fault and while I'm not certain what he was cited with, I do know he wasn't cited for The 3 foot Law.

316.083 Overtaking and passing a vehicle.
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to those limitations, exceptions, and special rules hereinafter stated:

(1) The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall give an appropriate signal as provided for in s. 316.156, shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance, and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle. The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle.

(2) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle, on audible signal or upon the visible blinking of the headlamps of the overtaking vehicle if such overtaking is being attempted at nighttime, and shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.

(3) A violation of this section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation as provided in chapter 318.

Fresh Blood in Jax Bicycle Advocacy.

2011-08-18T16:38:00.001-04:00

I was once told the definition of insanity is beating ones head against a wall and enjoying it. For four years now I have been plugging away with Bike Jax. 40% of the time I find it very satisfying, those are the times I deal directly with the public and others that use their bicycles for transportation and utilitarian reasons.

The other 60% of time is sitting in meetings about planning and infrastructure along with dealing with planners and politics. Those times are like the insanity definition described above. The meetings and conversations take a lot out of a person and frankly I can only beat my head on the preverbal wall for so long before I gotta stop and reassess what and why I'm doing what it is I'm doing. That's what has happen to me and bike Jax over the last year or so. I just got tired and burned out. I have begged and pleaded with other cyclists to help and get involved and with the exception of one guy who after two years of his own head banging called it quits completely repulsed by city and state officials and the system within which they work. It is impossible for me to put into words how frustrating and isolating it is to live in city of a million people and to be made to feel like you're the only who gives a shit. The only one that is willing to put in the time and effort it takes to make this city a better place for a specific group. So instead of blogging, I continued my focus on the Bike Valet program where I could physically see and enjoy the difference we were making for cycling in the city. Each year I saw more bikes parking, more bikes with panniers, baskets and trailers. More people telling me how they are now using their bike full time or for those little trips they were once conditioned to use their cars for.

My attitude towards bicycle advocacy has slowly been changed towards the positive again with the start of this years Bike Valet at Riverside Arts Market. Since Day one outstanding people have been showing up and giving of their time to help park bikes. And it hasn't stopped there, within the last couple of months when the core group of a Riverside social cycling group that call themselves The Skidmarks along with those new Bike Valet Volunteers came to me and asked what they could to do to get more involved. I nearly cried right there and then. My answer was a simple one, Go to the meetings and get involved. Make your voice heard. Well you should have seen the faces on the 8 or so people that make the board of local BPAC (Bicycle Pedestrian Action Committee) as around 25 new faces filed into the meeting that first month and 40 something at the next.

Since then things have moved fast within that new energized group which quickly formed a Facebook group, and just as quick a Website. I am happy to announce the formation of Jacksonville Bicycle Coalition (JBC). They have their mission and seem to be moving with a full head of steam toward the wall of insanity that is bicycle advocacy in Jacksonville with every intent of breaking through.

Jacksonville Bicycle Coalition meets twice a month and all meetings are open to the public and welcoming of anyone that wants to get involved.

Sunday directly prior to the 1st Thursday of Each Month
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: Three Layers Coffee House

3rd Saturday Of the Month
Time: 12:00 pm
Location: At Bike Valet during the Riverside Arts Market

Main St. Bridge Sports New Signs For Cyclists

2011-08-14T22:26:00.000-04:00

I just noticed this new signage added to the sidewalk approaches on both ends of the west side of the Main St. Bridge.

The Main St. Bridge opened in July of 1941, officially the John T Alsop Jr. Bridge is one of only two bridges in Jacksonville that provide Bicycle and Pedestrian traffic across the St. Johns River. Jacksonville has 7 Bridges total spanning approximately a 22 mile length of the St. Johns River.

Jacksonville is not a progressive city; it is now and has always been a reactive city. It does nothing until enough complaints pile up to warrant action. And that action is usually swift and without regard as to what is best for all parties. It normally results in a restriction or banishment of whatever entity is causing the complaints.

The sidewalk area on the Main St. Bridge at it widest is 5 feet on the North approach (The Landing), narrows to 4 feet for the length of the bridge, and finally narrows to just 3 feet at the base of the south approach. Barely enough room for two people to walk by each other. Now imagine being a pedestrian in that already tight corridor and a cyclist is coming towards you, bombing down the bridge with speeds of 20+ MPH. I would imagine it would be more than a little unsettling. Now think about how frightening it would be to have that same cyclist blow by you from behind. You never hear a sound, you just suddenly feel the presence of someone or something moving very fast over your shoulder. I've seen both scenarios played out in front of me more times than I care to count.

Most cyclists are either not aware or don't care that when they ride on a sidewalk or multi-use path they are required by law to yield to pedistrians. In fact they are also bound by the same laws as a pedestrian.

FS 316.2065

(10) A person propelling a vehicle by human power upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, has all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances.

(11) A person propelling a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.

What's the solution? The ideal would be to pull bicycles off the sidewalks, reduce the speed on the bridge and make room for them in the traffic lanes with a road diet. A full lane in each direction dedicated to bicycles would be paradise. But since the Main St Bridge feeds traffic primarily on to and off I-95, this is not likely to happen. The next best solution would be the use of Sharrows. Of course both of the above options would require a portion of if not an entire lane of the grating on the span of the bridge to be covered or filled to make a safer and more stable surface for cyclists to travel.

Until then we are stuck with the sidewalk option over the Main St. Bridge and all of us cyclists have to remember to be more respectful of the pedestrians. Slow down and use your bell, or give a polite verbal warning well back and prior to passing. Follow up with a thank you as pass. We expect drivers to respect our space and place on the roads. We cyclists should provide the same to those on foot. Also keep in mind that your actions reflect on and effect all of us that choose a bicycle as transportation.

Bike Videos & Music

2011-07-29T02:35:00.000-04:00

Here are a couple videos and some music for your Friday enjoyment.

The first video I got via an email from a marketing firm with offices in all the real cities. Which mean, not Jacksonville.

It's of a bike theft that was witnessed and stopped by a female designer in this company's San Francisco office.

You've probably heard the old saying, "A billion chinese can't be wrong." Here is how you market a bicycle. The Flying Pigeon was the official "peoples" bicycle that was the main source of transportation for the masses in China.

Lastly is this catchy little tune from Canadian artist Shera Kelly.

A Bicycle Commuter's Anthem

How Not to Lock Your Bike

2011-07-12T17:48:00.001-04:00

I came across this bike at the publix on San Jose Blvd next to Target. The owner of this bike has one cable lock, one ULock and one cable. Yet he/she still does not seem to feel there might be a need to lock the bike the rack. Instead they opt to run the cable through the front tire and secure it with the ULock which was around the head tube.

On a side note, this publix has pretty good rack placement but the rack itself is of the old out-of-date wheel benders.

Lots of Bike Goodness This Weekend in The Core

2011-06-24T14:50:00.001-04:00

There are plenty of opportunities in the Urban Core to get your ride on this weekend.

Tonight: Critical Mass

Where: Memorial Park, Riverside

Time: 5 PM

More Info: CM Facebook

Sunday: Tour de Riverside

Where: ZenCog Bicycle Company

Time: Noon

More Info: Tour de Riverside

Sunday: Best Friends Ride

Where: Birdies

Time: Meet at 2pm, Ride at 3.

More Info: Best Friends Ride #23

It's Time To Get Critical and Mass

2011-06-23T13:27:00.001-04:00

If you've been in Jacksonville for any length of time you already know that our city does very little for the betterment of the populous as a whole. They do even less with any vision and forethought that doesn't put money into the pockets of the elite. They have let and even encouraged FDOT to run roughshod for decades building roads and destroying entire communities in the process. Pedestrians and cyclists be damned! This hear city is for the mighty combustion engine.

It's time to make your voice heard. Get on you bike and help give this city a swift kick in the ass.

What: Critical Mass
Where: Memorial Park, Riverside
When: Every Last Friday of the Month at 5 PM.

End of Bike Month Activities

2011-05-23T21:18:00.001-04:00

Friday May 27th: Critical Mass

Find out more HERE.

Saturday May 28th: Blessing of the BIkes

Ride meets at Bike Valet at Riverside Arts Market.

Facebook Event Page.

Bike To Work Day Tomorrow

2011-05-19T14:28:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow Friday, May 20th is National Bike to Work Day. Once again, information was just received and once again, sorry for the late notice of details.

Bike to Work 2011

Have you ridden your Bike to Work Lately?

Join Council Member Don Redman on May 20, 2011 for “Ride Your Bike to Work Day”. Organized group rides will depart from 3 locations in Jacksonville. Each group will have an escort provided by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Bike shop owners have also volunteered vans to transport other personal belongings for the trip Downtown. The Police escort and Van service will not be available for the return trip.

The Arlington group will depart at 7:05 AM from the Food Lion located at 966 Arlington Rd N, Jacksonville, FL across from Champion Cycling. The contact person for this group is Jim McDonald 904-724-4922.

Route: West in Arlington Expressway Service rd: south on Cesery blvd merging to University blvd: West on Atlantic blvd: north on Kings ave: west on Prudential dr: north on Hendricks ave west on Gulf Life dr: over Acosta Bridge: east on Water st : north on Hogan to Hemming Plaza.

The Southside group will depart at 6:50 AM from Kmart located at 9600 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL near the intersection of San Jose and St. Augustine Road. The contact person for this group is Phil Foreman 904- 982-4380.

Route: North on San Jose Boulevard: north on Hendricks ave: west on Gulf Life dr: over Acosta Bridge: east on Water st: north on Hogan to Hemming Plaza.

The Westside group will depart at 7:10 AM from Publix located at 4495 Roosevelt Blvd # 103, Jacksonville, FL. The contact person for this group is Charlie Fetzer 904-716-7364.

Route: North on St Johns ave: west on King st: north on Riverside ave: east on Water st: north on Hogan to Hemming Plaza.

We will all meet briefly on Pearl Street between the CSX building and the Times Union Center for performing Arts before ending at Hemming Plaza around 7:30AM. Mayor John Peyton and Council Member Don Redman will gather with cyclist for a short ceremony where Mayor Peyton will present a proclamation to the North Florida Bicycle Club. Council Member Redman will provide juice and bagels for the riders. The North Florida Bicycle Club will provide Cycling Guides.

Facebook Page

Ride of Silence is Tonight

2011-05-18T12:49:00.001-04:00

I literally just got the info for this ride emailed to me. Sorry for the short notice.

The Ride of Silence is in remembrance of those that didn't get to complete their journey.

From the Facebook event page:

THE RIDE OF SILENCE WILL NOT BE QUIET

On May 18, 2011 at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence will begin in North America and roll across the globe. Cyclists will take to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn't aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves.

The Ride of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph and remain silent during the ride. There are no sponsors and no registration fees. The ride, which is held during National Bike Month, aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for those who have been killed or injured.

Ride info: Wednesday, May 18 · 7:00pm - 8:30pm.
2108 Blanding blvd toward Downtown Jacksonville

Learn More HERE.

Make Your Voice Heard. Today.

2011-05-17T09:15:00.001-04:00

Progressive or Regressive? It's Your Choice!

2011-05-16T13:28:00.001-04:00

I often get called out for being "too political" in person and also within the comments left both here on Bike Jax and via Facebook. Too political? Not hardly. If I'm anything, I'm too opinionated and I know I tend to voice my personal opinion here and on Facebook a little more than I should. But I'm not apologizing for it and I'll certainly do it again. It's who I am. I'm also sorry to inform those of you that think I'm "too political" bicycle advocacy is a highly political process. It is after all the local, state and federal legislators who create the laws and regulations that govern every aspect of cycling from design and installation of infrastructure along with who can ride to how and where we are allowed to ride our bikes.

Tomorrow May 17th is the runoff election for citywide offices and The Times-Union ran an article a couple days ago asking, "What if" we had not elected the mayors we had. I sat for awhile and pondered that very question. What if we had elected leaders that instead of focusing their attention on bring the NFL here, instead focused on making Jacksonville a more livable and sustainable city. What if they had concentrated their energies on controlling runaway sprawl with infill multi-level mixed use development that would promote walking, biking, and mass-transit in the way of buses, streetcars and commuter rail? What if they had worked to keep the true indicator of a city's heath and wealth (Downtown) lively, livable and viable? What if they had shown the head in the sand suburbanites how much their property value would increase with working transportation options? What would our economy be like today if 40% of Jacksonville's populous were pumping the extra $8000 a year they would have by only owning one car instead of two back into the local economy thanks to dependable and easily accessible mass-transit?

What if those elected had accomplished the things mentioned above and corporations and people moved here because they saw how much Jacksonville had to offer because of its forward thinking leaders? Just maybe the NFL would have been knocking on our door instead of us spending 30 years performing oral satisfaction in backroom deals to NFL movers and shakers.

We could have a progressive man with the kind of focus and vision that will move Jacksonville forward as our mayor as soon as tomorrow... Or we could keep on keeping on with the regressive same old tried and true "I won't raise taxes...Until I do", "I do everything my pastor tells me to do", "we don't need libraries, arts or school activities" teabag backed douche we have elected over and over.

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am sick and tired of every conversational bitch session concerning Jacksonville ending with, "but it's getting better." Bullshit! Where and how is it getting better? All I see are the empty lots where the historic buildings used to be. All I see is JTA keeping all their focus on building roads instead of building a strong transportation system. All I see is a fucking tax bill for rain.

Get out tomorrow and make a difference. Vote for Alvin Brown and let's move Jacksonville forward for a change.

Police Search for Driver Involved in Fatal Hit & Run

2011-04-14T12:14:00.001-04:00

St Johns County Sheriff''s are searching for the vehicle and a driver that fatally stuck 23-year-old Bryan Wrigley in St. Augustine yesterday afternoon at 3:20.

Wrigley was riding westbound on Country road 214 Between I-95 and Country Road 13A when he was struck by the passing vehicle.

Witnesses tell police the vehicle was a dark blue Ford Ranger with extended cab. Investigators state that the truck should have damage to the front of the truck on the drivers side.

If you have any information on the vehicle or driver of the vehicle please contact the St. Johns Sheriff's Office at 904-824-8304.

Video via First Coast News.

Smart Monkeys On A Bike

2011-04-05T17:46:00.000-04:00

It's been proven that certain species of primates are more intelligent than others and despite what you read here and encounter though daily life in this city, Jacksonville has some pretty bright monkeys. It just unfortunate that the key leaders and decision makers of the city are not among the best and brightest of monkeys. A couple of weeks ago I was asked if I would like to join a friend and her family for a day at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Since it had been well over 10 years since my last visit to the zoo I thought enough time had past. It was time to forgive and forget and return for another visit to see how things had changed at the Jacksonville Zoo and if the monkeys in charge had gotten any smarter.

While I had been to the zoo many times as a child growing up here in Jacksonville. I only have a few memories that I have retained of the many visits made throughout my childhood. Two of the most vivid are from my 9th birthday party which was held at the zoo. Of all that occured that day, I only remember two things about that birthday. One is of my party guests and I loading up and riding the train pictured below.

My other memory is of a little petting zoo with goats, rabbits and chickens all which seemed to have had its fill of being pushed and prodded by various kids. I remember standing to the side of that petting zoo feeling so bad for the animals as kid after kid chased them around for just that one quick touch. As a kid I found zoos in general to be sad and depressing places. But my parents seemed to enjoy taking me, so I never complained or told them how I felt. I feel I should explain that I grew up in a very rural part of Jacksonville with the sighting of deer, bear, bobcat, fox along with every type of reptile and raptor native to florida pine flatwoods and wetlands a daily occurrence. Having spent countless hours of my youth watching animals move within their native landscape, seeing more animals in little pits with motes full of dirty water didn't hold a lot of appeal for this kid. It wasn't until years later as an adult when I had started traveling on my own I learned how lucky I was to have grownup in an environment that allowed me the exposure I had to "the real Florida." It was through those travels that I learned the important role that zoos play. With uncontrolled sprawl and the destruction of natural habitat being the new national pastime, the only interaction most adults and children have today with animals are as domesticated pets. And that is where the importance of the modern zoo comes in.

Past Experience

My last visit to the Jacksonville Zoo was 12 years ago and I thought it would be fun to take my then 8 year old (now 20) nephew for the day. Well, it didn't turn out to be such a fun place for either child or adult. I left the zoo exhausted, a nervous wreak and with a bad taste in my mouth both figuratively and literally. The Jacksonville Zoo had gone through a extensive redesign since my last visit as a child. Gone were those sad little pits I hated as a child. The new zoo had opened things up and the non-predatory animals were now mixed in with other species in a much more natural environment. The redesigned zoo lends itself to a much happier and healthier environment for the animals and a better experience for the zoos guests while also allowing for the preservation of endangered species through captive breeding programs. But the thing both my nephew and I both found frustrating with the new zoo were the many gas powered golf carts zooming all over the narrow paths that weaved through the zoo. I'm sure I resembled a deranged meerkat on constant vigil for the sighting of or sound of those damned golf carts approaching around every corner so that I could react in time to get my nephew and myself off the path as it raced blindly past spewing a cloud of half burnt petrol and oil. The carts created such a ruckus that they even caused the animals safely tucked behind barriers to seek cover the from the noise and fumes.

Smart Monkey's In Charge

Enter the smart monkey's. On my most recent visit, just as I had done for my 9th birthday I once again loaded up on a train to tour around the zoo's perimeter. Only it was no longer the tiny scale model of my youth. It is now much larger and a way more pleasurable and comfortable way for child and adult alike to enjoy what the zoo has to offer. It was on the train ride while my friends kids happily pointed out the animals and relayed to me all the information they knew about them including what they had named them that I started to notice a very pleasing trend. That was of zoo employees going about daily duties on bicycles. That delightful trend continued throughout the day as we continued our tour of the zoo on foot after leaving the train. It was such a pleasing experience to share the same paths with friendly smiling zoo workers on bicycles and trikes that my nephew and I once had to duck and cover on.

What had happened since my last visit? It's pretty simple, the city owned zoo had gone out and hired some pretty smart monkeys.

Pictured above is Tony Vecchio, Executive Director of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Tony is a Portland Oregon transplant (Its becoming clearer now, isn't it). Coming from a Portland background Tony is well versed in the value of bicycles as transportation and utility. So it made perfect sense when at his very first Green Team meeting his first question was, "do we really need all these carts?" Thus was the start of the greening of the zoos working fleet.

Together with Tony Vecchio, Director of Horticulture and Facilities and former Boston messenger, Bob Chabot (Pictured above) started getting rid of the obnoxious gas powered carts in favor bicycles and trikes. With a very limited budget Bob started with a few bikes purchased at a box store which were quickly replaced with better made bikes from a local bike shop. Bob learned real quick that discount bikes are not designed for daily use. At least not the daily use zoo employees put them through. Since that rough start and learned lesson, Bob has been able to build a fleet of 20 bikes and 15 trikes that carry the daily duties of everything from administration, maintenance and animal care and feeding needs. While you will still see golf carts in use around the zoo, they are no longer the gas powered monsters that once haunted my dreams and are now much more environment friendly electric carts.

Continued building of the bike fleet is an important focus for the zoo and they are always looking for ways acquire more bikes, trikes and trailers on a very limited budget.

If you are a local bike shop or business and would be interested in sponsoring the zoo's bicycle fleet, contact Tony Vecchio or Bob Chabo.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a shining example of how to do things right and we should be very proud of and support in it every way possible. It has something all of us monkeys can enjoy and I promise it will not be another 12 years before this monkeys next visit.

Getting there

Most arrive to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens by automobile. It is after all, the Jacksonville way. There are others however that will chose the more scenic, and practicable bicycle, bus or a combination of the two. The day I was at the zoo I did notice one glaring error on the part of the zoo. No bike racks. I counted 9 bikes locked to whatever was secure enough to lock to.

I was promised by the administrators that the lack of bike racks would be rectified as soon as fund allowed and I volunteered to help with selection of rack type and placement.

Regardless of the lack racks the zoo is an easy 5 mile ride from downtown.

You can also break up you ride to the zoo and take the bus partway. Try using the JTA Trip Planner. All buses are equipped with racks that carry two bikes.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

370 Zoo Parkway
Jacksonville, FL 32218
(904) 757-4463
info@jacksonvillezoo.org

Donate

Help the Zoo get a much needed Bike Rack. The zoo is owned by the city and like every other entity that relies on city funding, money is tight. This is where you can help. A new 9 bicycle masher style bike rack cost right at $300 with shipping. Use the donation button above (under the header) and lets get the zoo a bike rack.

Season 3: New Sponsors, New Additude & Free Beer

2011-03-02T16:09:00.001-05:00

The 3rd season of Riverside Arts Market open this Saturday the 5th and I have to admit that for the majority of 2010 season I was burned out. Just plain old sick and tired of being the bike guy. Despite my lack luster attitude I showed up and ran the Riverside Arts Market Free Bike Valet every Saturday whether I wanted to or not. And you know what? The Bike Valet flourished.

The Bike Valet parked two and half times more bikes than it did it's first year. As the year progressed we saw a steady increase to our daily averages each month. But the most surprising number to me was 73%. That is the number of people that used the bike valet and made purchases from the markets venders. What is more interesting is that number may even be higher as those that left the bike valet without purchases in baskets or panniers, may have enjoyed lunch or snacks from any of the numerous food vendors at the market and didn't have anything to ride home with except a full belly.

Since the close of season 2 this past december I have been in hibernation mode which left my friends calling and texting as to my condition and whereabouts with each art or social event I missed. I just really needed some time to myself to recharge my batteries. During that time I had also been doing a little planning for this the 3rd season of The Bike Valet. We have new sponsors and promotions which I've been excited about and have been waiting patently to tell you and I think It's time for some introductions to the new Bike Valet Sponsors.

Alex of The Bicycle Clinic has been a supporter of Bike Jax since he first started working as a mobile repair shop. He has come a long way since then and now has his own store front located on Philips Hwy. He has some of the best quality and affordable bikes to be found anywhere. He also has a full range accessories and he is still offering repairs and tuneups at more than reasonable costs.

Intuition Ale Works in Riverside has stepped up in a big way. That bike valet voucher on your bike now has more value than just letting us know which bike is yours. You can now take that voucher each Saturday to Intuition Ale Works Brewery and enjoy a free pint of one their many tasty treats. Free bike parking and free beer. You can't really ask for more than that.

LakeShore Bicycle & Fitness has been a Jacksonville staple since 1961. The Fetzer family took over the shop in 1980 and has been selling bicycles, parts & accessories and providing top flight service in the Lakeshore area since. We are proud to have them as a sponsor of the Bike Valet.

Nestliving recently relocated from 5 Points across the river to a new giant show room in San Marco. Not only do they offer some of the finest designer products for the home. The are also the only place in Jacksonville to find Batavus & Abici bicycles.

Nestliving has also donated 15 of Andrew Lang's popular Cycloc Storage Unit. These wall mounted bike storage units have won numerous awards and are great for space saving and/or displaying your bicycle.

The Cycloc units usually cost $100 retail - but for Bike Jax readers (and while supplies last!!) you can have one for $50. All of the proceeds go towards the cost of running the Bike Valet at RAM.

You can purchase them at the discounted price through the Bike Jax Store. Hurry color and quantity are limited.

Personalized Bike Plates as many of you know are the suppliers of our Bike Jax Tags. We are happy to have them on board as a sponsor this year. Give their website a browse and check out what can be done to make your own tags or make one as gift. They can pretty much make whatever you can think of.

I hope you will all welcome and support the bike valet sponsors by clearing your calendars and make plans to attend the opening of the Riverside Arts Market this Saturday the 5th.

Oh yeah, we will still be offer $10 complete bike detailing each and every Saturday. We will also have Bike Jax Tags available which we also now can take payment in the form of any major credit card for any purchase at the bike valet.

"Why You Shouldn't Ride Your Bike at Night"

2011-02-15T03:21:00.001-05:00

The title of this post is the same tagline used by local station WTLV channel 12 as a teaser more than a few times during tonights Monday evening NBC primetime shows.

It has become common place for local and national news organizations to rely on the culture of fear to entice viewers or readers because actual journalism is just too darn hard. But tonights teaser of "Why you shouldn't ride you bike at night" was way over the line.

Even through I never watch this stations news, (this post is a perfect example of why) I tune in and wait thru the drivel they call news so I can learn exactly why it is I shouldn't ride my bike at night. About midway through the half-hour broadcast the news anchors give a 5 second brief on how Florida Highway Patrol is looking into (not to be confused with investigating) a Collier County Sheriff officer hitting of a cyclist last week and then proceeded to show the dash cam video from that accident. They also made sure to point out the cyclist had been drinking.

So, basically what I learned from WTLV is that I shouldn't ride my bike at night for fear that I will get drunk and run over by the police. Thank a deity that we have WTLV to keep us safe.

What WTLV fails to point out however is that the cyclist is not a cyclist, but is in fact a pedestrian. Once a person ceases riding a bike and starts walking a bike they become a pedestrian. What they also fail to ask is why the officer "didn't see the cyclist until it was too late." It is a nice wide 4 lane road with a wide median. The officer is in the righthand lane and the pedestrian is approaching the side of the road from the left. The person walking the bike is also moving at what looks like a normal walking pace. If the officer had been paying attention to the road, it only seems natural that he/she would have had to see something in the distance, a glint of reflection of metal or some kind of movement in the shadows of headlight as he/she approached the person. You can also see in the video that there is traffic passing in the opposite direction. At some point that passing traffic headlights would have silhouetted the person crossing the road. Maybe the officer didn't see any of this because he/she wasn't paying attention to the road. Go back watch the video again. This time pay attention to the the nose of the car. Do you see any sign that officer made any attempt to break? Does the the front of the car dive downward in that telltale sign of hard breaking? I don't see it.

I'm not saying the "cyclist" wasn't in the wrong in this situation. What I am saying is that WTLV should be ashamed for using video like this and the tagline "why you shouldn't ride your bike at night" together. There is not a good reason why someone should not ride a properly lighted bike at night. I think they are doing a disservice to cyclists, pedestrians and the community at large. I also hope that in the future when accidents like this happen in our region WTLV and all other Jacksonville news agents will ask questions and check facts prior to airing.

You’re Welcome Mr. Motorist

2011-01-03T16:28:00.001-05:00

This is a recent article found on The Urban Country and reposted here with their permission. The Urban Country is an outstanding blog out of Canada worth adding to your list of blogs and feeds. I would like to thank them for allowing us the privilege reposting this article here.

You’re Welcome Mr. Motorist

You’re welcome Mr. Motorist. I’m happy that my mode of transportation has allowed more space on the road for you to get to your destination more efficiently.

One less car on the road to get in your way and increase congestion, right?

It’s my pleasure. It really is.

Remember the construction that was happening on your main commuting route last summer? I know, that was quite the drag.

You don’t need to thank me for putting very little wear and tear on our streets. I know it prolongs our roads and avoids those pesky construction delays, but don’t mention it. Seriously.

And oh those health care costs. Did you know that heart disease and strokes are two of the top three causes of death in Canada? In America, cardiovascular diseases and stroke cost an estimated $475.3 billion in 2009.

Isn’t it great that my commute helps keep me healthy so I can help reduce our health care costs? I would hate to be a burden on your pocketbook.

And how about those gas prices? Isn’t it wonderful that my bicycle doesn’t require gasoline? It’d be a shame if I contributed to increasing demand for fuel - driving gas prices even higher.

You don’t deserve that Mr. Driver. You deserve inexpensive fuel.

And what’s the deal with those downtown parking spaces? Those parking attendants are borderline criminal.

As if you don’t already pay enough for insurance, gasoline, repairs, registration, and maintenance for your car. Those parking guys want to charge you $20 a day to park your car? It’s criminal I tell ‘ya.

So it’s a good thing I’m not taking up those precious spaces. I’d hate for you to be late for a meeting while trying to find a parking spot for your car.

There’s no need to thank me for helping to pay for those free parking spaces at the local grocery store, either. I know, I know – that land wasn’t cheap for the grocery store to buy so that you could park your car there for free.

But I’m happy to do my part to subsidize those parking spaces for you – consider it a little gift from me to you.

Don’t bother thanking me for all the time I spend advocating for better bike infrastructure, either. I know, it will benefit both of us – it will keep me out ofyour way so you can get to your destination without being impeded by me, and it will also make me more predictable so you don’t have to be distracted by me while you’re on your phone. It’s a win-win situation, right? But no need to mention it, I’m cool with it.

You also don’t need to thank me for subsidizing the construction and maintenance of our city streets through the taxes that I pay. Yes, it’s true that less than 1% of those roadways that we both pay for are designed for bicycles, but that’s no fault of yours Mr. Driver, so no need to thank me for putting up with this.

It’s just one of those sacrifices that we as citizens make for each other – no need to thank me at all.

But I will ask one thing from you Mr. Motorist. It would be great if you could be a bit more cautious when you’re driving around me.

If you could do me that one favour, I’d be more grateful than you will ever know.

James D. Schwartz is the editor of The Urban Country. You can contact James at james.schwartz@theurbancountry.com.

Free Bike Valet at San Marco Hoilday on the Square - Friday Dec. 10th

2010-12-09T16:44:00.001-05:00

Bike Jax has been asked to provide a Bike Valet service for tomorrows San Marco Holiday on the Square. The event is from 6 - 9 PM and by the looks of the map below there will be plenty fun for everyone. I hope you will make plans to join us by bicycle and demonstrate to the San Marco merchants how a bicycle allows for more potential customers in a minimal amount of space when compared to the amount of space needed for automobiles.

Click on the map for full size

The weather for tomorrow evening looks like it will warming up from the arctic temps we've had over the last week.

Conversation with an Engineer

2010-12-06T22:18:00.001-05:00

This little video by a new group called Strong Towns exemplifies most conversations I've had with both city and state planners and engineers concerning how and why they do what they do.

It would also explain the copious amount of forehead size holes in various rooms throughout my house.

The Good Life & The Culture of Fear.

2010-12-01T14:21:00.001-05:00

Mikael Colville-Andersen of Copenhagenize gives a Ted-Talk on Bicycles as transportation and the culture fear that surrounds them.

I'm not going add anything to this other than to state, that I agree with just about everything Mikael has to say. I firmly believe that marketing is the key to successful advocacy and that the use of a helmet or not should be left to the individual.

Setting An Example

2010-11-19T12:21:00.000-05:00

As I begin to go over the checklist for the bike valet at tomorrows Riverside Arts Market. I keep thinking about last weekend and the many weekends like it that has taken place this season at our weekly "green" market and the indifference shown by the management of the market.

Let me back up a little and explain further. In January of 2005 the city of Jacksonville cut the ribbon and officially opened the Northbank Riverwalk instantly creating the busiest bicycle/ped corridor in the city.

Every Saturday March thru December that same Riverwalk runs beside the Riverside Arts Market and feeds people walking and cycling to the market from Downtown, Springfield, San Marco, and suburbs south and east of the city.

But the Riverwalk doesn't just just bring people into the Arts Market. For many it is their place for exercise, recreation and corridor to work and home. And that is what I can't seem to get the management of the market to understand. That the Riverwalk is a roadway. Not for cars, but for people and it should never have its access restricted or blocked as I've pointed out in the past. Yet market leaders continually allow the market happenings and events to spillover on to the Riverwalk causing those on the Riverwalk off of it and into the crowds of the Market.

This past weekends chalk art event was no different. Instead of using the space available to the market. Management allowed it to take place on the Riverwalk. The picture above was taken early before the crowds arrived and literally shut down the riverwalk.

Was other locations for the chalk art available? There were plenty of them. Look at the map and picture below where I've circled the ample amount of usable space just around the bike valet.

The Riverside Arts Market does a lot of things right. They make sure all artist prove they actually make their art. The farmers vegetables and fruits are locally grown. They have banned the use of plastic bags and opted for venders only to use biodegradable bags. They promote the use of alternative transportation in the way of walking, buses and of course cycling.

But if the management of the local green market doesn't get it and doesn't set an example along the Riverwalk, how are we to expect the rest of the city to understand the importance of this path?

Status Quo

2010-11-03T13:40:00.001-04:00

Not much has changed since the the start of Bike Jax. We're still banging away at getting the lowly bicycle recognized as more than a toy or sporting goods.

Since the start of Bike Jax we have promoted a more passive advocacy style. We have chosen to promote programs and events that encourage people to get on their bike and ride from point A to point B and back and let them figure out for themselves how easy and more enjoyable their trip had been.

We have also stated from the beginning that the key to getting more people on bikes is not advocacy, but marketing.

In keeping with that thought process, here's a great ad by Dutch bike manufacture Batavus.

Translation via: Copenhagen Cycling Chic

"Hey neighbour... ESP, ABS, fog lamps, 16 inch rims and 6 gears."

The neighbour says: "28 inch rims, 8 gears, high power lights and computer integrated in the steering. My wife and daughter have the same."

A Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2010-10-26T23:57:00.001-04:00

Nothing like a relaxing Sunday afternoon in Memorial Park.

Zombie Hosting Ladies Night

2010-10-11T16:07:00.001-04:00

There is one thing that is hard to deny about the women I know that use their bikes as transportation. They are some of the most independent, outgoing, confident and enjoyable to be around people that you will ever meet.

If you are a lady and want to get hands on and learn how to repair and maintain your bike in a relaxed (male free) and comfortable setting from other like-minded ladies. Make plans to attend Ladies Night at Zombie Bike Collective. There is no cost to attend.

5 Points Merchants Say Screw It & Install Bike Rack

2010-09-29T14:36:00.001-04:00

When it comes to bicycle infrastructure it is very safe to state that Jacksonville is lacking. That lacking infrastructure is not limited to bike lanes and paths, but also includes bicycle parking. It is also beyond impossible to get the city to respond to the demands of the public when it is pointed what and where it is lacking and no one is more aware of this than the merchants of 5 Points.

Take a walk thru 5 Points shopping district just about anytime and it's completely within the norm to find bikes locked to just anything that will stand still long enough. Add to the narrow pedestrian unfriendly sidewalks that line the storefronts stacks of bikes and mobility around the area can get pretty cramped.

Merchants in 5 Points have been asking the city for over 2 years to improve the situation and put bike racks in. After finally having been given the run-a-round around by the city for the last time, the merchants said "screw it" and purchased a rack themselves and installed it.

While one rack will not do much to alleviate the bike parking situation in 5 Points. It is a start and welcome sight.

Is this rack legal and will the bike rack stay? According to Jacksonville Municipal Code, no:

Sec. 616.102. - Bicycle racks on sidewalks.

No person shall place any bicycle rack on any sidewalk or in the space between the sidewalk and the roadway of any street without obtaining a permit from the Council for that purpose. The Council may grant a permit under such terms and conditions as to it shall seem advisable for the protection of the interests of the City. Violation of this Section shall constitute a class C offense.

As historically inattentive as the city is to bicycle infrastructure I doubt anything will come of the improvements the merchants have made and I think that if the city won't respond to a communities needs. Then the communities are within their rights to do what they can to meet those needs themselves.

If I Ride....

2010-09-28T13:11:00.001-04:00

I will know how the trees smell after the rain...

Visit PeopleForBikes.Org and take the pledge.

Commuter Profile - Sam Holcombe

2010-09-23T15:57:00.001-04:00

Meet Sam Holcombe, third place winner in the English moustache division at the World Beard and Moustache championships. Some of you may have have already met Sam during his days working at Native Sun. He is originally from Oklahoma and has been working and going to school in Jacksonville for the last 4 years.

What do you use your bike for?
I use my bike for transportation and fun.

How long have you been commuting by bicycle and what was that inspired you to start?
I always felt guilty about driving: buying gas, spending so much money on every little thing. I would commute off and on for a few years and on new years I gave up driving completely.

How many days of the week do you commute by bike?
Six or seven depending on the week.

What would you say to convince someone who is considering commuting by bicycle to give it try?
It can be done. It is not always easy but it can be done.

What could the city do to make biking better?
Bike lanes! And not ones that cut out for no apparent reason. It is safer to have a bike line and make the trip that much more enjoyable.

What reaction do you get from co-workers?
A few people I work with don’t have cars and it is seen as normal to get to work by other means.

What’s the best thing about commuting by bicycle?
Not driving. I feel better about not driving and I stay in shape.

Can you give a brief description of your route?
I don’t ride on the safest roads. I take University to Phillips to get to school, Phillips to get to work and Atlantic to go back home. If I have school and work it’s about 19 miles.

Where are your favorite roads or paths to bike in Jacksonville? Least favorite?
I like the Baldwin trail and going up the Acosta, one of the only hills in Jacksonville. I don’t like Atlantic Blvd. Drivers seem to be the worst on Atlantic.

What do you like about biking in Jacksonville? And dislike?
Jacksonville is flat. If this town had bike lanes you could actually use to commute it wouldn’t be that bad of a town to bike in. Jacksonville is also huge but the more you bike the smaller the distances seem.

Have you ever combined transit and biking or used a bus bike rack?
Yes, sometimes it’s a nice break to use but I find it easier just to bike than use the bus system here. I have also been kicked of the bus for having my folding bike.

Do you commute in cycling or street clothing? And if cycling clothing, how do you handle the change to street/work clothing?
I commute in both. I change in a bathroom when wearing cycling clothes

Any bike gadget/gear cyclists should not go out without?
All you need is a bike and a bag. I have a few gadgets like bike trailer when I need to carry more stuff but it is not necessary.

Are you a member of any cycling organizations/clubs? If so, which ones?
No

Scary bike stories?
I have been hit by two purple Dodge Caravans.

$10 Bike Detailing Now Available at RAM Bike Valet

2010-09-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

For two seasons now Bike Jax has been happy to provide safe and secure free bike parking to the patrons of the Riverside Arts Market. Bike Jax like every other advocacy group is continually seeking funding sources, but we are uncomfortable and unwilling to beg for it since we understand how tight everyones budget is. We would rather provide something of value for our supporters. Bike Jax is happy to announce that we have teamed up with the Bicycle Clinic to offer complete Bicycle Detailing. Not only can you relax knowing that your bike is being is being watched over. You can now go and enjoy all that RAM has to offer and make that ride home with your baked goods, veggies and local art on a spotless and shiny bike.

Complete Detailing Includes:

Environmental Friendly Waterless Cleaning of:
The Chain, Entire drive train, Front & Rear Derailleurs, Hubs, Rims, Frame, Spokes & the Cassette.
Lubing of Drive Train
Polishing of Frame (all frame materials) to give that showroom finish.

All for $10 every Saturday at the Riverside Arts Market Free Bike Valet.

Don't have the time to get your bike done on Saturday's? Live too far away from the Arts Market? We'll come to your home or business and detail your ride during the week. $20
Call Matt at 904.335.8166 for an Appointment.

Need more than just a clean and shiny bike? Not a problem. Alex of the Bicycle Clinic is offering a

$49.95 Bicycle Detail & Tune-up Special

It includes:

The Complete Bicycle Detail Listed above Plus:
Same day service
Free Pick Up & Delivery
Replace all Cables
Adjustment of brakes and gears
Inspection and adjustment of all components to assure they functioning correctly
Inflating tires to proper pressure
Lubrication of hubs, headset (if needed)
Inspection of Cables housings
True wheels

Call Alex at 904.422.1144 for details and arrangements.

Customer's bike accidentally sold at estate sale

2010-09-08T12:39:00.001-04:00

Let this be a lesson to why you should always lock your bike. Even when you're in "safe surroundings" or "just right over here."

Via: Pensacola News Journal

PENSACOLA -- When Jim Rodney visited an estate sale on Saturday, he parked his bicycle near the carport so he could go inside to examine the merchandise.

When he came out he discovered that his bike -- his sole means of transportation -- accidentally had been sold, for $5.

Rodney, 56, said his bicycle, a chrome, 27-inch, 21-speed Schwinn Super Sport, had a value of about $450. Super Sports models on the Schwinn website sell from $450 to $950. He said that his bicycle apparently had been the victim of poor communication between the buyer and the family member helping with the estate sale, who had been haggling over another, older, bicycle in poor condition.

The organizers of the estate sale, held at a home on Dunwoody Drive, felt bad about the mix-up and offered him $100, Rodney said.

"I thanked them, but I told them that that wouldn't help me get my bicycle back," Rodney said. The organizers of the sale could not be reached for comment.

Since giving up his car about a year ago, Rodney has ridden his bike everywhere -- to work, on errands, etc. -- and had just had the rear tire and some cables replaced in preparation for a journey to Kansas.

"I'm hoping that the person who bought the bike will see this and realize that a mistake was made and have the kind-enough heart to get it back to me," Rodney said.

Weekend Rides

2010-08-27T12:08:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to remind you of a couple rides happening this weekend. However, I thought I would first share this nice little video to set the flavor of the rides.

Both rides are taking place on Sunday.

The first up is, The Best Friends Ride #20 which takes place every last Sunday of the month. It sometime has a fun theme that may include dress or place. It is a very fun and casual ride through Riverside, Downtown and Avondale neighborhoods. Drinks and food at local joint to follow ride.

Meet at Birdies (Sign still says Starlight) in Five Points at 2pm.

The Second ride of the day is the every Sunday Cycle Chic Jacksonville ride out at Jacksonville Beach.

Meet at Champion Cycling at 5pm for some Florida style on bikes with a bunch of really nice beach folks. Drinks and food at local joint to follow ride.

Both rides are a come-as-you-are celebration of people and bicycles. No lycra, no helmets, just people living life on bikes the way its meant to be.

Mondays Suck

2010-08-16T13:46:00.001-04:00

Saw this poor guy downtown on Bay St. while on my way to the bank this morning. I did go over to make sure he had everything he needed. Hope his day improved.

Two Wrongs Make...

2010-08-14T06:33:00.001-04:00

The Bicycle Clinic's New Home

2010-08-09T14:48:00.001-04:00

I think it's great to see the sponsors of Bike Jax doing so well in a not so good economy and even less friendly bike friendly city.

ZenCog bikes are all over Riverside. I'm seeing It's a Girl Thing cycling clothes in more bike shops and clothing boutiques

But I think that Alex of the Bicycle Clinic has had phenomenal success since we first met him in November of last year.

He has worked his way from a van to commercial storage units and now into a store front located on Phillips hwy. between Baymeadows and Mandarin. Bikes are a simple machine and by following the same principle of keeping it simple. Alex has build a steadily growing clientele by providing quality repair service at reasonable prices. Couple that service along with affordable used bikes and a line of new bikes by 3G and Vilano. Alex has also not forgotten where he came from, The Bicycle Clinic still offers complete mobile bicycle repair.

Scraperbikes: Saving Lives

2010-08-07T22:36:00.001-04:00

New Designs & More Options

2010-08-03T12:29:00.001-04:00

I've added a couple new T-Shirt designs over the weekend that I've been sitting on for sometime with the hope that we at Bike Jax would be able to produce them ourselves. That hope has faded and rather than shelve the designs any longer. I have redesigned the Bike Jax Store to showcase each design along with a few of the items that are brandished with each design.

I have made all the designs available through CafePress and admittedly the items are bit more expensive through them. But I figure coupled with the quality of the printing and the wide variety of clothing styles and sizes. Also add the numerous non clothing products, there should be something for just about everyone.

The Bike Jax logo & "I Bike Jax" designs have proven very popular. Building on those with one advocacy minded and one more, lets say, 'humorous' design. I would like to present, Bike There & Sex Machine.

Both designs are transparent so the color of the clothing shows through.

See all the designs at the Bike Jax Store.

I am a segregationist...

2010-07-23T12:05:00.000-04:00

Lets get this out and in the open right now. I am a segregationist. Not in the racial sense, but in the transportational sense.

Some time ago while having what I thought was a friendly exchange of ideas and thoughts with a bike blogger in another city concerning cycling infrastructure. He retorted to my last response with, "You are a vehicular segregationist, this conversation is over!" Vehicular Segregationist? I sat and thought about that statement for sometime and throughout the next couple of days I pondered that statement and I finally came to the conclusion, that if what I wanted in the long run was for more people to feel that there was infrastructure in place that made them feel safe enough to choose cycling over a car. Then yes. I am indeed a vehicular segregationist.

I guess I also should explain that the individual I was conversing with is what is commonly known as a "vehicular cyclist." What's that you ask? To put it in the most basic of terms, vehicular cyclists firmly believe that there is no need for separated cycling infrastructure in the form of bike lanes or paths. They proselytize that bicycles are vehicles and should be 'driven' like vehicles on the road. For a better understanding of who these people are and their thought process I recommend reading, Vehicular Cyclists - Cycling's Secret Sect by MIckael Coville-Andersen at Copenhagenize.

What incited this post are two recent videos I happened to watch back to back and they could not be more night and day. The first is providing information for correctly 'driving' your bike in traffic. As you're viewing it, take note of how hard these cyclists are working. Note also how stiff, harried, and just plain uncomfortable they appear. Do they look like they are enjoying their commute? Do they look any less stressed than your average automobile driver?

This second video is by Clarence Eckerson of StreetFilms and was filmed during the Vilo-City 2010 conference in Copenhagen. Do you notice any difference between these cyclists and those in the above video? Do they seem stressed or harried to you? After viewing both, I'll let you decide for yourself which is better suited for increasing bicycles as transportation.

Are you a vehicular cyclist or a vehicular segregationist? If you have the brains to do some research and can think on a logical basis and If you also think about what is best for majority and not just for yourself. Then maybe you, like me are perhaps a majority of segregationist with a little of vehicular cyclist thrown in.

I Bike Jax in The Big Apple

2010-07-22T16:36:00.001-04:00

Bike Jax'r Beth Slater sent us this pic of her proudly sporting her I Bike Jax tee on a recent trip NYC.

Do you have pics of your travels while wearing your Bike Jax gear? We'd love to see and share them Send them our way and we'll post'em up.

Don't have any Bike Jax gear? It's easy to get.

For the Bike Jax Logo gear go HERE.

For "I Bike Jax" Gear THIS is where you'll Find it.

A wide variety of styles, colors and sizes to choose from.

Cycle Chic: Jacksonville Beach Style

2010-07-19T19:17:00.000-04:00

I Have to admit that throughout the three and half years of Bike Jax there is one section of town I have neglected. That being the area of town known as "The Beaches." While all of it is within and included as part of Jacksonville. The Beaches are three separate municipalities that are made up of Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Beach. All of which ironically could boast without any doubt or argument as the area of the city with the highest use of bicycles as transportation.

Why have I so rudely forsaken the beaches? Mostly because it's just a pain in the ass to get to and away from. For those of you that are unfamiliar with Jacksonville and its size. It is flipping huge and the largest city in the US for land mass. Just for some perspective, If Jacksonville were a country it would rank 176th out of 233 countries in land mass. Getting anywhere within Jax takes time. Taking a bus from Downtown is 2+ hours roundtrip. Driving while much quicker, at only about an hour roundtrip means traveling down Atlantic or Beach Blvds. Both of which will cause the most calm and subdued of drivers to gouge someones eyes out by the time they arrive at the beach or for the return trip home. Biking to the beach and back? Forget about it. Your only road option for cycling the 19 miles to the beach is Beach Blvd.. It is the only roadway to the beaches that has a bridge with cycling/pedestrian accessibility to cross the Intracoastal Waterway. And if driving on Beach Blvd. isn't a challenge enough for you, try doing it on a bike.

While all the above are valid reason for neglecting the beaches inclusion in Bike Jax. They really don't make up for my laziness and unwillingness to venture out to the beach and enjoy its bike culture.

This weekend I finally got off my ass and made the trip out to the beaches for the inaugural ride of Cycle Chic Sundays hosted by Katie of Cycle Chic Jacksonville. It was not only a bit of culture shock seeing so many bikes in use. It was like a euphoric male dream come true to see so many women on bikes wearing such a wide variety of styles and states of dress.

We met up at Champion Cycling on 3rd st. where I was shocked to not only find bike a shop open on a Sunday, but also packed to the gills with customers. I guess that explains why there are something like 8 bike shops within 2 miles of each other. Bicycles are big business at the beach. And despite my feelings of guilty for doing what I consider as the dumbest thing possible, (but is a necessary evil with Jacksonville's size and lack of planning) driving somewhere to ride a bike. Katie and the rest of the crew of Champion Cycling made me feel very welcome.

Jacksonville Beach should be the bench mark for area planners. They have done just about everything right to make the use of bicycles the best option for transport. The have narrow gridded streets with very low posted speeds (15 - 25 mph) which is heavily enforced. They divert the automobile traffic at certain intersections allowing only bikes and pedestrians to continue and they have very limited public parking which deter the use of cars. I wish the rest of Jacksonville would learn the lessons taught by Jax Beach. If you make the use of the automobile less desirable, people will choose other options in the form of bicycles, walking and mass-transit.

About 20 people showed up for the ride with about half being male. The ladies (thankfully) more than made up for the guys lack of chic. We rode and talked while getting better aquatinted for about an hour and then ended the ride at The Lemon Bar. That is where I got my second big culture shock of the day. Bike parking. It was available everywhere. Outside of the beaches you're very lucky if you can find a bike rack. But at the Lemon Bar alone they have 5 large racks packed full of bikes. I think there were somewhere around 200 bikes attached to just about anything that would hold still long enough to throw a lock around it. And that was just for this establishment. Each business I saw had some sort of bike parking available. What a freaking breath of fresh air it was to see.

There is one more thing I noticed about beaches biking. No culture of fear. I saw only one rider wearing lycra and a helmet. Not once did I get the stink eye or questioned because I wasn't wearing a helmet myself. The beaches with its laid-back lifestyle has it figured out. The only thing you need to ride a bike is a bike... and a place to put your beer.... and few pretty girls or guys to ride with. And that's all you need.

To see all the Beaches Style Cycle Chic goodness, Click HERE.

Cycle Chic Jacksonville

2010-07-16T17:55:00.034-04:00

In 2006 Mikael Colville-Anderson started a photoblog in his home city of Copenhagen, Denmark with the following simple line, "This is a photoblog about everyday life in Copenhagen and a tribute to the cyclists who populate this city." I don't think he had any idea of the worldwide phenomenon he was about to create with the launch of Copenhagen Cycling Chic. There are now close to 100 "Collaboraters & Copycats" from just about every country and major city listed on Copenhagen Cycling Chic site.

I would like you all to meet Katie who has joined the cycling chic revolution with the launch of Cycling Chic Jacksonville and is kicking things off this Sunday at 5pm with Cycling Chic Sundays.

I Had the opportunity to ask Katie a few questions about Cycling Chic Jacksonville and her plans for it.

Bike Jax: Who are you and why are you starting Cycling Chic Jacksonville?

Katie: Katie Barnes, 20-something young woman who adores bicycles and the people & culture surrounding velocipedes. I recently launched CycleChicJacksonville.com

While working at Champion Cycling in Jacksonville Beach over the past few months, I have seen our Tuesday road rides grow from 3 people to nearly 30. It's so exciting to watch people come together over a shared interest. I thought it was time to reach out to a different crowd... a crowd who

loves to ride bikes, but at a slower and more relaxed pace. When I started researching groups of beach cruiser riders, I came across Cycle Chic Sundays. Cycle Chic Sundays started at the beginning of this year with a group of friends in Southern California who wanted to cycle in style together. Inspired by the Cycle Chic movement, the goal is to "enjoy time with friends and make new ones while riding bikes and looking chic."

The pictures that Cycle Chic Sundays has posted on their blog are so refreshing. You instantly notice the vibrant clothes and patterns, and everyone looks full of youthful energy in their vintage dresses and sun hats. Many of the pictures show guys and gals goofing off and simply enjoying a Sunday afternoon on their favorite mode of transportation.

Bike Jax: What are you hoping to accomplish with Cycle Chic Jacksonville and will your focus be within the beaches area of town?

Katie: My hopes are to: a.) bring all sorts of people together b.) promote cycling and bring awareness to bicycles in Jacksonville c.) demonstrate that you don't have to wear spandex and use clipless pedals to to be considered a "cyclist."

Right now, our rides are at the beach. I would love to start a second Cycle Chic Sundays Jacksonville in the Urban Core. Any volunteers??

Bike Jax: Do you think Jax is ready for some style on bikes or are jorts and dirty tees going to reign as the standard?

Katie: If Jacksonville can support so many wonderful and chic boutiques and vintage stores, I think we can definitely support activities while being stylish. Besides, aren't "jorts" and ripped tees quite in vogue right now?? http://blog.thecobrasnake.com/

Bike Jax: Do the beaches tend to be more stylish when it comes to bike fashion than those in the urban core?

Katie: Not "more stylish"... perhaps just a different type of style. At the bike shop in Jacksonville Beach, I constantly have customers looking for unique accessories and custom painted bikes. From what I have seen on Bike Jax and Zombie Bikes, there are definitely some epic bikes in the urban core that are tricked out with accessories, components, and stellar paint jobs.

A big difference would be "cruisers" at the beach VS "fixies" in the urban core. Thus, accessories would be geared more toward those different types of bikes (for example, wicker baskets VS messenger bags).

As far as fashion goes, I shop at the beach and in town, and I know loads of beach dwellers who also enjoy shopping in town. With so many magazines, blogs, and other internet sites devoted to fashion, I believe no matter where you live, you have access to fashionable finds at friendly prices. At the beach you might see more women in dresses on bicycles simply because after a day on the beach, its easier to slip a dress over a bathing suit.

Bike Jax: Anything else you would like to add?

Katie: Any and all community support is greatly appreciated! Put on your Sunday best and join us at 5pm Sunday at Champion Cycling in Jacksonville Beach, 1303 N Third St.Stops include Lemon Bar, so bring i.d.

One thing is for sure, you will have a grand time!

Ideas for attire: * sun dress * twill shorts * ballet flats * flowy skirt

* plaid shorts * vintage * loafers * heels

* flat cap * fedora * Hawaiian shirt (this is Jax BEACH, afterall!)

NO SPANDEX!!

Thanks Katie, If you would to join in on Cycling Chic Sundays meet:

Sunday July 18th 5pm

Champions Cycling

1303 N Third St, Jacksonville Beach

And if you missed the link above here again is the link to Cycle Chic Jacksonville. please add it your RSS feeds or bookmark it. It is long past time for Jacksonville to learn that they already own a closet full of cycling clothes.

Laura Street Improvement Not An Improvement For All.

2010-07-14T17:34:00.002-04:00

The City of Jacksonville never fails to leave me wondering, "what the hell were they thinking?" Once again I ended up walking around muttering the above mentioned phrase to myself as I checked out the new roundabout that makes up the first phase of the Laura Street Improvements Plan.

The Roundabout's purpose is to slow down traffic while also keeping it flowing, but also providing a safer more friendly environment for pedestrians. But I don't think there is a single functioning brain within the COJ Planing Dept.

I think the COJ Planing Dept draw things up and go, "ohh that's pretty." There is no way that they stop and think about their designs usability for all users. The new roundabout is ringed with "cobblestones" for the road surface Which makes it almost unridable for cyclists in the best of conditions. The bricks being used for this road surface while called cobblestones are anything but. The picture above does not come close to showing just how bad the surface of this road is. Each individual brick contains a very sharp peak and valley and combined with each of surrounding brinks make a surface that will not allow a bicycle to stay in contact with that surface. In wet conditions, every two wheeled mode of transport that hits that very unstable surface at any speed is in serious risk of injury or worse. The funny thing is how bristled up the city leaders got when Jacksonville was awarded with top 3 worst cycling cities recently by Bicycling Magazine. Yet they continue do to thing like this and just keep adding on to a very long list of examples as to why.

Bad Bike Rack Placement #2

2010-06-28T20:24:00.001-04:00

I'm starting see a trend here with Publix and bike racks. The first one being the bike rack being used as a barrier for propane tanks. The picture below I took this afternoon at the Publix on Old St. Augustine Rd. and I-95.

This may not be the fault of Publix but more on the side of property owners. Despite my preference to see more bike racks placed in front and center locations like this and not in the back of business by the trash cans and grease pits. This rack is placed in the back third of a standard parking space and is not visible until a driver is already turning into the spot. The space itself doesn't have any markings or signage to separate it from all the other spaces other than the bike rack. The rack as you can see from the picture above has had to suffer more than one attempt from cars to push it out of the way. Presumably so the owner of the vehicle doing the pushing can get the back half of their vehicle that is blocking the roadway out of the way. And when the rack refuses to move the vehicle owners give up like the one pictured above and goes on with their day, inconveniencing everyone that needs to walk or drive past their car and any cyclists that would like to use the rack for its intended purpose.

Do you know of other poorly placed bike racks around Jacksonville? Send us some pictures, the location details and why you think it needs to spotlighted and we'll post them here. Our email is info@bikejax.org

Business Spotlight: Kabre' Cyntanna Hair Studio

2010-06-24T14:38:00.001-04:00

This is our first attempt at Bike jax to feature a local business that offers specials to cyclists. Instead of doing the same old boring picture of the front of business and then posting emailed responses to questions. We thought we would give video a try. The Video is shot with my cell phone camera and the built in isight on my macbook pro. It is very blair witch like in that video and audio are very raw. And since I also happen to be visible during the interview, it happen to be quite frightening, but hopefully this video doesn't suck as much as the actual movie.

The business featured here is Kabre' Cyntanna Hair Studio at 2706 Park st.. We had heard that they offer a 50% discount on haircuts to anyone that arrives by bike and wanted find out more. Check out the video below and then call 904.329.2860 to make an appointment for your next cut and save some dough.

If you know of any local business that offers any type of special to cyclists please let us at Bike Jax know about them.

Street Art Scanvenger Hunt

2010-06-14T19:05:00.001-04:00

We are excited to announce that Five Points Theater is bringing to Jacksonville a film by world renowned street artist Banksy, Exit Through The Gift Shop. Urban Jacksonville Weekly will be broadcasting live at the theater for the opening on June 24th.

Join Bike Jax This Saturday for the Street Art Scavenger Hunt.

6 winners will receive passes for free admission to the film.
Everyone that participates in the scavenger hunt will receive a certificate for a free beer compliments of Five Points Theater.

How the Scavenger Hunt Works:
It’s really quite simple, you will be given a clue sheet to a location of the art where you will photograph what you find. Each item on the list will have point value. Winners will be determined by total points and time at finish.

You will need:
A Bike and a Camera or phone with Camera

RSVP Here

Random Stuff For The Weekend

2010-05-27T00:56:00.005-04:00

No Bike Valet This Weekend!

Bike Jax is heading out of town for the Memorial weekend and a well deserved break. I'm sorry to say that there will not be Bike Valet this Saturday for the Riverside Arts Market. Please spread the word and let others you know who are planning on attending RAM to bring their locks.

The Best Friends Ride

Hey friends, Let's ride bikes, play laser tag, race go-karts and play some arcade games all in one day. From Birdies to Adventure Landing the ride is roughly 6 miles and will take about 35 minutes to get there, so prepare yourself with water, sunscreen, etc. We will stop somewhere along the way for a short water/bathroom break. After Adventure Landing, we will be stopping at La Nopalera on the way home for food and bevs. For ticket prices and more info about the park visit their website. You can also pre-purchase tickets there to save $3.http://www.adventurelanding.com/jacksonville

Invite all your best friends, and we will see you there!

The Bicycle Clinic Offering Custom Painting

I got an email from Alex at The Bicycle Clinic let me know he is now offer custom framing painting. "The Bicycle Clinic is offering custom framing painting. We will work with you from concept to completion to insure your total satisfaction. We also handle all the pre and post painting details from tear down of your frame cleaning and deegreasing to rebuilding with your original parts."

He offers everything including; teardown, frame prep, custom painting and build up for $100

Cargo Picnic Ride Sunday

2010-05-21T15:34:00.002-04:00

Join us for the Cargo Bike Picnic Ride this Sunday

Location: Five Points Coffee & Spice - 820 Lomax st. 32204

Time: 2pm

Description:
What's a cargo bike? According to Wikipedia, "Freight bicycles, carrier cycles, freight tricycles, cargo bikes, or bakfietsen, are human powered vehicles designed and constructed specifically for transporting large loads." But the reality is any bike you use to transport you and personal items is a cargo bike.

The Cargo Bike Ride is an afternoon of merriment to celebrate the utilitarian and versatility side of the bicycle. Everyone from backpacks to bakfietsen are welcome. don't matter how you get it there as long as it's on a bike.

When Is A Bike Rack Not A Bike Rack?

2010-05-19T13:32:00.001-04:00

The answer my friends is when it is installed as a barrier. I found myself by St. Augustine Rd. and University Blvd. the other day needing to swing into a Publix to pick some stuff up. Luckily there was a big brand new one right there on the corner. I parked and smiled as I noticed the new shiny potato-masher style bike rack right up front close to the entrance of the store. I noted in my head that I thought it was placed a tad to close to curb however.

It wasn't until I returned outside that it hit me why the bike rack was placed where it is. It was never meant to used as bike rack. It's sole purpose is to act as barrier for the propane gas canisters located behind it.

Looking at the two pictures above you can see what I am talking about. If a cyclist were to use the rack as designed, part of the bike would overhang into the roadway, which could lead to damage of the bike. If a cyclist were to lock his/her bike so as not to overhang the curb, it would then completely block the sidewalk while also preventing access to the propane canisters. As you can see from the 2nd picture there are only two items located along this sidewalk, the propane display and the bike rack. I might also point out it is a very long sidewalk by storefront standards as there was another 25-30 feet of it behind me and not pictured here.

So why does Publix place a bike rack right in front of a propane display in an unusable state if not solely to act as a barrier and protection from automobiles?

Blessing of The Bikes Pictures

2010-05-17T15:43:00.001-04:00

This past Sunday was witness to the 1st annual Blessing of the Bikes. It was hosted at the stunningly beautiful St. Johns Cathedral (which sits atop the highest point in downtown) and the service was performed by Reverend Deborah M. Jackson. I am not a man of faith, but I have to admit along with everyone else in attendance that the service was a wonderful experience and one I will look forward to next years bike to work week.

Bicycle Flash Mob

2010-05-16T19:30:00.001-04:00

A 150-girl choir, trial bikers and beatboxers do Queens 'Bicycle Race' at the Brussels Central Station, to promote 11.11.11, a charity bicycle tour.

Blessing of the Bikes This Sunday

2010-05-14T14:50:00.002-04:00

Don't forget that this Sunday is the kickoff to National Bike Week with the Blessing of the Bikes. Get all the info Here and Here.

Commutes: Night and Day

2010-05-14T14:18:00.009-04:00

*Photo is via Metro Jacksonville

Above is what the typical commute that thousands of people face in Jacksonville each and everyday. But what if there was a way to remove a third of that traffic? Would you dear jacksonville driver support a program that not only allowed your travel time both to and from work to be substantially reduced. But also raised your property values along with the quality of life for you, your children and every other person in this city?

There is a way. The video below is a film I found on David Hembrow's site by Mark Wagenbuur. It is of rush hour in Utrecht, Netherlands where 33% of all trips are taken by bike. During the 2 minutes it takes view this video, notice the total lack of automobiles versus the abundance of busses, trains and bikes. It's no wonder the people of this country are considered the happiest on the planet.

It's National Bike Month Ya'll

2010-05-02T12:23:00.000-04:00

If you've got an appetite for some bicycle goodness and are seeking some sweet and juciy bicycle calories. You are in luck for this entire month. May is National Bike Month and unlike March which is Florida's Bike Month there's a lot going on in the way of yummy bicycle nourishment.

Here is a list of what I know is happening for this month. Keep checking back as I will be up dating this post as I hear about more events.

Wednesday May 5th:

Art in Motion MOCA

Location: Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art

Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Description:
Cinco De MOCA!

Please join us May 5th from 5:00-9:00 PM during first Wednesday Artwalk. This month’s theme is “Art on Wheels” and MOCA will be joining in the fun with a very special night that will include:

• ZenCog bike shop from Riverside will be showing off some custom bikes that they have dubbed “art in motion” in the MOCA lobby.
• It’s a Girl Thing models will be sporting their line of women’s bicycle clothing
• Urban inspired photography by Ashley Schaffer
• Free tickets will be handed out to the Artwalk crowd for an 8:30 raffle in the MOCA lobby that will include a free MOCA membership, Café Nola gift certificate and some goodies from ZenCog.
• $5 Margaritas at the MOCA bar
• All Mexican beers are $3!
• Café Nola will feature Mexican inspired dinner specials

Burro Grand Opening Party

Location: 228 E Forsyth St.
Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Description:
Grand Opening. Free Beer. New Murals from Shaun Thurston. Music by Triclops I

Saturday May 8th:

Springfield HIstoric Bike Tour

Location: Three Layers Coffee House - 1602 Walnut Street. 32206
Time: 10:00am
Cost: Free

Description:
Join Ready 2 Ride Bike Tours and SPAR as we leisurely make our way through the historic district, enjoying the interesting history, unique architecture, and beautiful tree canopy along the way.
Bring your own bike and ride for free, or rent one for $25.

Sunday May 16th:

Blessing of the Bikes:

Location: St. John's Cathedral - 256 E. Church St.

Time: 2:00pm

Description:
See Website

Start Of Bike To Work Week

Monday May 17th:

Bicycle Commuting Workshops:

Locations: See Below
Time: 6 pm

Description:
Three free bicycle commuting workshops will be held Monday May 17 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at local bike shop locations. Champion Cycling will host work shops in Arlington, 904-724-4922, and Mandarin 904-262-5744. Lakeshore Bicycles & Fitness, 904-388-0612, will host a Westside clinic. All bicycle commuter workshops are free and open to the public.

Wednesday May 19th:

Ride of Silence:

Location: LakeShore Bicycles & Fitness - 2108 Blanding Blvd.

Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Description:
Join cyclists worldwide in a silent, slow paced ride (max.12 m.p.h.) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling in public roadways.
Cyclists wil take to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured. Although cyclists have the legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn't aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of cyclists themselves.
The Ride of Silence is a free ride that asks it's cyclists to ride no faster than 12 m.p.h. and remain silent during the ride. There are no sponsors and no registration fees. The ride, which is held during National Bike month, aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police, and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also to show respect for those who have been injured and killed.

Friday May 21st:

Bike To Work Day
Location - See Below

Description:
Give it a try! Biking to work and school takes some planning and effort, but once you get the hang of it you’ll like it. Organized group rides to downtown will depart from 3 locations in Jacksonville; Arlington, Mandarin, and Westside. Group rides will depart at 7:00 AM and arrive downtown at Hemming Plaza for a 7:30 – 8:00 AM continental breakfast. Each group will be accompanied by members of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and will include a bicycle shop van to transport riders’ belongings. No assistance is provided for return home trip.

ARLINGTON: 7:05 AM Contact person: Jim McDonald 904-724-4922
Food Lion Shopping Center on Arlington Rd, north of the Arlington Expressway across from Champion Cycling
Route: West on Arlington Expressway Service Rd: south on Cesery Blvd; merging to University Blvd: West on Atlantic Blvd: north on Kings
Ave: west on Prudential Dr: north on Hendricks Ave West on Gulf Life Dr: over Acosta Bridge: east on Water St: north on Hogan to Hemming Plaza.

SOUTHSIDE: 6:50 AM Contact person: Phil Foreman 904-982-4380
Mandarin K-Mart at the intersection of San Jose Blvd and Old St Augustine Rd
Route: North on San Jose Blvd: north on Hendricks Ave: west on Gulf Life Dr: over Acosta Bridge: east on Water St: north on Hogan to Hemming Plaza.

WESTSIDE: 7:10 AM Contact person: Charlie Fetzer from LakeShore Bicycles & Fitness: 904-716-7364
Publix Shopping Center next to Roosevelt Mall
Route: North on St Johns Ave: west on King St: north on Riverside Ave: east on Water St: north on Hogan to Hemming Plaza.

Breakfast on the Bank:

Location: Riverwalk

Join Bike Jax on Bike To Work Day for a breakfast on the Riverwalk.
Complete detail are still forthcoming. Check back for updates.

Sunday May 23rd:

Cargo Bike Ride:

Expanding The Bike Valet

2010-04-30T01:26:00.000-04:00

Last year Bike Jax joined the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) to provide a free bicycle valet service. RAM (if you are new to Jax or have been in a coma for the last year) is a weekly farmers and arts market held under the Fuller Warren Bridge (I-95) along the banks of the St. Johns River.

The idea was a simple one. By providing free bike parking we could get people to think of using their bikes as transportation without us having to prosthelytize our agenda. And if we could get people riding to RAM on a regular basis. Just maybe they would realize how easy it is to use a bike for their other transportational needs like work, school and shopping. Did it work? According to the feedback we have received from those that use the bike valet. I'd have to say it has worked way beyond anything we could have ever hoped for.

Year 2
We are now finishing up our seconded month of the seconded season of RAM and we have made a number of changes for this seasons RAM Bike Valet. The first change we made so far is to go car-free for transport of the valet station. We secured a place onsite to store the concrete filled buckets that make up our fencing anchors. We had needed a truck to haul those around last year. The rest of the setup fits easily on an extra-cycle equipped bike and at times a cargo trailer.

The next thing we have improved on is the addition of Regions Bank as the sponsor of the Bike Valet. This is a major improvement in that last year, all expenses had to come out our personal pockets since Bike Jax has no working budget. If you're not currently banking with Regions, might I show you something in green?

Another of other changes we have made this is season is the expansion of the size of the bike valet due to increased numbers. Our numbers are up 50% over the first season. Not only are more people riding to the Artist Market, they riding from greater distances. Below are maps showing the range of which people rode to RAM last year and so far this season on a consistent basis.

One Event At a Time
With the success of the bike valet at RAM we have hit a small snag. We are being inundated with requests to provide bike valet services at other city and public events. With only 2 of us currently carrying all the duties of the bike valet. It leaves us little time or ability to expand the bike valet and provide service to other events.

We need a pool of people willing to volunteer some of their time to help make Jacksonville a more bike friendly place to live. We would also like to find a couple people to become event coordinators. Duties will include working with event promotor and coordinating the volunteers. We also need a couple of people with a pickup or van that can be available to transport, setup and pack up the bike valet.

If you're interested in becoming a volunteer or leaning more. Email me at info@bikejax.org

Bicyclist Injured in Ponte Vedra Hit-And-Run

2010-04-23T12:14:00.001-04:00

It appears that this lady (Andrea Zampatti of Ga) went bat-shit crazy this morning while driving her Range Rover hitting one cyclist (condition unknown) and according to the Times-Union, "Witnesses told troopers the vehicle took aim at other cyclists and a scooter rider who ended up in a ditch."

When the police caught up with her, she pulled over, "And then she put it in reverse and plowed into the front of the patrol car." tells St. Johns County Sheriff's Public Information Officer Kevin Kelshaw. She then took the police on a high speed chase where she hit several other vehicles and objects along the roadway before she hit a truck head on.

UPDATE:
I'm happy to learn that the cyclist was air lifted to Shands Hospital in Jacksonville where they're being treated for injuries that are not life-threatening.

I was also provided information this evening about the driver. I was given her Facebook which lists her website. She is apparently into the dishing out of pain. Her website is a t-shirt shirt company called 39X. Her site describes their clothing as, "Christian lifestyle clothing line catering to Christian athletes of all sports such as boxing, mma, surfing, basketball, skating, football and other sports. 39x was created to bring a wholesome yet stylish type of clothing to the world and represent the true meaning of love and dedication through Christ's ultimate sacrifice."

It goes on to explains the name of company; "Jesus in his last day was whipped 39 times. The lashings were brutal and painful. 39X is a reminder of that pain. He endured those lashings so that we may be saved."

Gotta love those christians that will make a buck off other christians by talking-the-talk, but don't walk-the-walk.

Read full story on Times-Uhion.

ZenCog Grand Opening Party

2010-04-09T13:32:00.001-04:00

I hope you are making plans to join Bike Jax sponsor and just all around damn nice bike shop ZenCog Bicycle Company for their Grand Opening party this Sunday starting around noon.

Mayorial Candidate Blocks Riverwalk

2010-04-08T04:27:00.001-04:00

What do you think would happen if a politician announcing their candidacy for mayor held their press conference in the middle of a major road? How do you think drivers would react to such an intrusion to their rush hour commute?

Today Jacksonville's General Counsel Rick Mullaney did just that. While not a major road, Mr. Mullaney seemed to have no issues with interrupting the commute of those that use the Riverwalk which is the busiest cycling and pedestrian path in Jacksonville. I being one those commuters, I was not happy about having to lug my loaded bike thru the landscaping alongside the riverwalk to get around the blockade and back onto the path. And with today be the first Wednesday of the month, traffic was even heavier than usual with the addition of people headed into Downtown for Art Walk.

This is a perfect example why Jacksonville was recently named one of the top 3 worst cycling cities. Our leaders and leaders-to-be either don't know or don't care about alternative transportation in this city.

Regions Banks Bicycle Give Away

2010-04-02T17:04:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow and the first Saturday of the month throughout July at the Riverside Arts Market Regions Bank will be giving away a stylish Regions Cruiser and Helmet.

All you need for a chance at one of these bikes is to show up and drop your name in the hat during market hours (10 am - 4 pm) and that's it.

That's Just How The Library Rolls

2010-04-01T16:40:00.001-04:00

Anyone that knows me, has met me or even has read this blog for any length of time knows that I'm quick point out the flaws and problems with our city and it's leaders.

But one thing I think our city got right is the design of our new main library downtown. It is beautiful not only in it's design, but also it's functions. Add to that the influx of young bright and creative talent that cares not only about the library but also how the library interacts with the community. And you have what is (in my opinion) the one of the very few shining stars in the city of Jacksonville.

A couple of months ago the library started a whole new collection called the Zine Collection. Zines are usually self-published pamphlets and have been the underground reading material for the geeks, dweebs, hipsters and all-a-round general flunkies for the last couple of decades.

Not content with just starting the Zine Collection. Josh Jubinsky (Pictured above) and others of that young bright and creative talent mentioned above wanted to bring those Zines from the underground and into the light for the masses. How do they do that? Well, you load the Zines on to a modified trailer and bike to events like the Riverside Arts Market.

And that is how a library full of outstanding individuals rolls.

The Backlash Tour: Tonight

2010-03-23T15:00:00.001-04:00

Nothing like waiting until the last second to get things posted. But at least it wasn't due to my slackass-ness this time. I just got the email that contained the info I requested over a month ago.

Any-who, plan on heading out to the new Zombie Bike location at 47 w. 1st St. for a slice of that ever so tasty bike friendly Portland pie.

Portland based Rev. Phil. is bringing BikeSmut's Backlash Tour to Jacksonville as part of a 100 day 50 city tour.

Festivities kick off at 8PM and will continue until the PBR runs out. Hopefully I'll have some pictures for you tomorrow.

Bus & Bikes - Can't we all just get along?

2010-03-18T17:20:00.001-04:00

Here is a safety video for both bus driver and cyclist produced by the Chicago Transit Authority. I think it should be mandatory viewing for all JTA bus drivers. I almost never see them signal their intent when I follow on bike. Which leaves me always guessing when and where they are pulling over for stops, turning or returning to the flow of traffic.

As for passing forget about getting the 3 feet passing distance required by state law. Most busses pass by me so close that I wonder if I should be reaching in my pocket for fare.

The portions of the video directed towards the cyclist are the standard rules of the road. But worth viewing judging from the way I see most cyclists endanger themselves and others with the way they ride through traffic.

Google Adds Bike There Directions

2010-03-10T23:00:00.001-05:00

It was the summer of '08 when bike bloggers and cycling advocates began a petition requesting Google to include a "Bike There" routing option in their maps.

Today the Google Gods ended our long wait and announced the release of the beta version of a bike there option in . The Google blog has all the info about the release.

Google say's, "More than 12,000 miles of trails are included in biking directions and outlined on the map, covering over 150 cities across the states. And more are being added."

I tested a couple of the heavily used routes just to see what the suggested routes would be. The first one I did was Downtown to Five Points in Riverside. I used Hemming Plaza as the starting point and Park & Post Streets as the destination.

Looking at the map you may be wondering, why not Riverside Avenue since it has bike lanes? The map did what Google said it would do. That is find the quietest roads with the least amount of hills. And Park St. is far less trafficked than Riverside Ave. Also the Park St. railroad viaduct is a far easier climb that the one on Riverside Ave.

The unfortunate thing is that Google Maps as of yet does not recognize the Riverwalk as a bike trail. Which is the most traveled route between Riverside and Downtown.

As this is a beta release, Google asks that you encounter a problem with bike there directions to use the "Report a problem" link at the bottom of the left hand column as pictured below.

I have already reported the missing Riverwalk and I hope that some of you will do the same.

Notice the dark green lines denoting a bike route on both Acosta and Main St. Bridges. It's really sad that a city bisected by a river keeps cyclist and pedestrians limited to to 2 of the 7 bridges (soon to be 8) that span the river.

The second route I tried was Atlantic Blvd. & Kernan Blvd. to University of North Florida.

This route didn't do near as well as it did with the downtown route. It sends you down Beach Blvd. which is a very heavily traveled 6 six lane road. It also doesn't show the Kernan Blvd. Bikeway that runs along that length of Kernan from Atlantic Blvd. and ends just short of the entrance to UNF. If you use this route please make sure to report as problem using the link provided by Google as mentioned above.

Google does however include in its database both the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rails to Trail and Black Creek Trail in Orange Park.

Overall, I think the beta of the bike directions is outstanding and will only get better more accurate with time and input of local riders.

Try some of your own and let me know how well it works for you.

Arts Market Opening Pictures

2010-03-07T13:45:00.001-05:00

Despite the temperatures continuing to be well below average for us here in North Florida. People bundled up and flocked to the opening of the second season of the Riverside Arts Market.

While we at the bike valet didn't take the beating the we took during last year's opening day. We were very happy with the steady flow of people that kept the bikes racks close to full through out the day.

The first bike showed up an hour before the opening of the market. Roxanne (pictured above) and is proudly displaying the first valet ticket of the season. You can read more about Roxanne and her car-free life in her commuter profile she did for Bike Jax a while back.

This mother and daughter traveled from their home 3 miles away. 3 miles is a very short distance on a bicycle and easily ridable for a child as long as you remember that they are a child and let them ride at their pace and not yours.

Our new sponsor Regions Bank was well represented with our new banners. We even had a couple members of the bank ride over on Regions Cruisers. You will have an opportunity to win one of these bikes soon. I'll give you more details on how that will happen shortly.

Speaking of bikes, If you didn't make it out to the market on opening day. Make sure when you do, drop in to check out these beautiful European bikes from Nest Living. They will be on display and available for purchase all season right next to the bike valet.

Bike Jax is very happy and excited to be able to provide the Free Bike Valet for a second season. We are looking forward to keeping your bike safe and secure while you enjoy everything that the Riverside Arts Market has to offer.

Bike Valet Returns With Opening of Rverside Arts Market

2010-03-05T12:53:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow marks the opening day of the second season of the Riverside Arts Market (RAM). Bike Jax will be there to continue the much requested free bicycle valet service. Only this time we will not be alone.

We are very excited to announce that Regions Bank will be joining us as our sponsor through this season of RAM. Here is the the first look at the new banners we will be sporting this year.

We will also open this season as we closed the last and will be joined once again with Jacksonville's only mobile bicycle repair service, Alex of The Bicycle Clinic. He will be there providing simple tuneups and minor repairs. Stop by and get your bike checked out.

Next to us on opening day in what is now called the Fringe of the Art Market will be Nest Living. Jacksonville's only source for authentic European bikes. Come check out the Dutch made Batavus and Italian made Abici bikes. Take a test ride and see for yourself what style over speed look and feel like.

We are still located in the same place we were last season. If you have not used the bike valet click on the map above.

If you live outside of the Urban Core and you're looking for a way to combine your modes of transport via bike and car or bus you can find all info you'll need HERE.

We also have a very limited numbers of I Bike Jax shirts left. And for the opening of Arts Market they will be $5. Get them while they last.

It's Bike Month in Florida

2010-03-01T16:25:00.001-05:00

May is bike month here in Florida. While the rest of the nation holds off celebration of bike month until May. The reason I have been told that Florida has chosen March is that because it's too hot in may. That may very well be the case in South Florida, but here in North Florida with night time temps around freezing and daytime highs of late not much more. Bike Jax will be following the rest of the nation and withhold the celebration of bike month until May.

Our honorable Governor Charley baked to a crisp Crist has reach into his files and rolled his tried and true yearly March is bike month proclamation today.

Here is it for all your reading delight.

It appears that ol'chucky has taken the time to update this years proclamation with the addition of a couple more Whereas's. If you would like past proclamations for comparison, here is 2008 and 2009.

New Sponsor - It's a girl Thing

2010-02-26T14:22:00.001-05:00

I want to welcome It's a Girl Thing Cycling Clothing as a new sponsor of Bike Jax.

It's a Girl Thing is Liz and Jennifer a couple of local ladies that were just "Two women, two bicycles, and nothing to wear."

They go on to to say, "that's what we thought when we checked out the market for women's cycling clothing. We women should not have to settle for mediocrity. It's a Girl Thing has done something about it!

No boring fluff. We are attitude, comfort and style. What you wear is a reflection of you. Our clothes are uniquely designed with women cyclists in mind. Our mission is to have every woman cyclist out there Feel Good, Look Great, and Ride Better."

You can find their line of jersey's, shorts and t-shirts at local bike shops or online HERE.

Bike Jax Ringtones

2010-02-21T22:20:00.001-05:00

Bike Jax rolled out the the bell ring tone last fall and since then it has been downloaded over 2200 times.

After more emails than I care to count asking for a message tone. I am happy to say it is finally available. It's perfect for your text, IM and email alerts.

You can test it out on the lefthand side of this page. Download it HERE.

If you would like the ringtone you can get it HERE.

Welcome to Our New Sponsors.

2010-02-18T13:57:00.001-05:00

I would like to welcome two new sponsors to Bike Jax.

ZenCog Bicycle Company

ZenCog is not only Jacksonville's newest bike shop, it is also the hottest going right now. Located in Riverside in the historic Mary Built Building on Stockton St at the corner of College St.

If you've been dreaming of building up you own dream bike. ZenCog is the place to visit to get your dream ride on the road. While they specialize in single-speed bikes. They are in no way limited to building bikes for the gearless set. You can read more about them HERE.

The Bicycle Clinic

Alot of you by now have an opportunity meet Alex of mobile bicycle repair fame. His was generous enough to donate his time and skills offering free repairs and tuneups at the Bike Valet the last couple of months at the RIverside Arts Market.

I'm happy announce that he will be joining Bike Jaxat the Bike Valet again at RAM this season which opens March 6th.

If you need anything done to your bike from flat repair to a complete restoration give Alex at The Bicycle Clinic a call. Our original article about Alex can found HERE.

How To Get Your Sweetness On.

2010-02-14T03:11:00.004-05:00

Ok guys, it's that one day of the year you had better be on your game. I don't care how many times your gal said, "oh, don't bother doing anything for me on Valentines." I'm going to let you guys in on a secret. It does not matter how much she espouses her distain for day. She's lying. She cares and she cares deeply. And you had better go out of your way to let her know how special she is and how lucky you are to be with her.

If you follow these easy steps you will not only make your gal very happy. You may just end having some fun yourself.

Step One:

Bring on the flowers. All woman love getting flowers. I think it's build into their DNA.

Step Two:

One word, Chocolate. Again, built into DNA.

Step Three:

Make the day all about her. Plan a day around a nice bike ride. See a movie (one of her choice.), plan a picnic if the weather allows. A ride to museum is always a good choice. Unstrap the helmet and let the blood flow to that noggin of yours and put some thought into. There are a ton of things you can do with her that will make her feel like a queen and not break the bank.

If you followed the 3 simple steps above and you let her know how special you think she is. She just may return the favor and make your evening special.

Pass the Mic N' Bike II

2010-02-12T16:27:00.001-05:00

If you're tired of sitting around the house and are seeking a reason to get on your bike, hear some great bands and mingle with the masses. The it thing this weekend is Pass the Mic N' Bike II.

Following up from the largely successful October event, we're presenting Pass the Mic n' Bike 2!

New bands, New locations (one old favorite) - same awesome story.

Meet up at Memorial Park at 7:45ish and we'll be biking to one riverside house to hear the St. Augustine's PREMADONNASAURUS, then onto Warehouse 8b (Talleyrand) for a dueling set between STARING DAGGERS and CIVILIZATION and then onto a Springfield manor for DEVIL RUNS THE TRUCKSTOP (mere blocks from Shantytown).

Bring your bike, your booze and your good times.

You can RSVP on Facebook here.

Or if you not up for the group ride thing or are running late here is the map of the route and venue locations.

Bike Jax Face Lift For It's 3rd Anniversary

2010-02-10T06:33:00.001-05:00

Bike Jax is 3 years old this week. After 3 years the site was in desperate need of a complete overhaul. So we threw it on the stand and torn it down. Cleaned and completely rebuilt it, keeping the parts that were still good and adding some new parts where it was needed. Let me know what think. Good or bad.

One of the new parts is the Sponsors section on the right. We have a few new local and national sponsors and will let you know more about them once we get them up on the site. If you would like your business to be included as a sponsor contact me at info@bikejax.org.

ZenCog - A New Attitude

2010-02-01T16:03:00.001-05:00

If you talk with local bike shops (LBS) they will give you all kinds of reasons why their sales are lagging. The number one complaint I hear most from LBS's is that they can't compete with the prices of frames and components on the internet.

I also get the distinct pleasure of hearing the other side of the coin from the patrons of those same bike shops. The ones that walk into those LBS's and walk out empty handed. They also have a number reasons why they don't purchase locally.

Their number one reason: LBS doesn't offer what they are seeking in a bike. And they usually follow with a statement which always includes something about the "attitude" of the shop or sales person.

As of today there is new bike shop in town that thinks it has the answer to this issues. How to be a self-sustaining bike shop while providing the bikes and service the people want, and doing it all without the snobbish attitude.

Enter ZogCog Bicycle Company. Located in the Mary Built building on Stockton St. at the corner of College St. sits a bike shop experience like none other you've had.

The First thing you'll notice when walking in is the wall of flat screens with table chairs and keyboard. This is what makes ZenCog Bicycle Company different and allows them to bridge the gap of what a bike shop offers and what the customer is looking for. This where you'll be taken thru the ZenCog catalogue of frames and components to build up your perfect bike that also keeps you within budget.

I had the chance to meet and talk with ZenCog mastermind Clark Schaffer to find out more about how it all works.

Bike Jax: What is ZenCog Bicycle Company and what sets it apart from other bicycle shops in the Urban Core?

CS: ZenCog Bicycle Company is more than a bike shop, it's a lifestyle. Most other shops try to lock people into a category, whether it be road, mountain, or whatever, then fit the customer to what they have in stock. ZenCog is a custom place where a person says "this is what I like, this is who I am, can you build a bike to fit me?" It all started with the ZenCog. A steel bike I built for myself, which starts with a road frame and track dropouts. I put all high end components on it (the few that were required with a coaster brake). And I ended with a maintenance free ride that is like no other, it coasts silently and has no cables or controls. Find that at another bike shop.

Bike Jax: Who are the guys/gals that makeup ZenCog and what does each add to the ZenCog experience?

CS: Unfortunately no estrogen, just three relatively freaky outcasts. The Garf and Istvan (Steve the Hungarian) are the face of the shop. They have many years in the bicycle business, and have a true love of cycling.

Garf is the front man and will pull out catalogues and take customers on a tour of our distributor web sites to find bikes and parts to fit the project.

Steve is flat out the best mechanic in town. He is not just a kid who wants a part time job in a bike shop, he is a professional. Service is our mainstay. Although we may have the best parts prices in town, we are steadfast that we offer top shelf service, and the customer must pay for the service, its not free to go with overpriced parts. We kind of flip flop the business model.

I am just a business man and do the web part early in the morning. I maintain the website, Facebook, the online catalogue, blog, gallery, and all technology. This is really about Garf and Steve, they do the heavy lifting.

Bike Jax: What brands of bikes will the shop be carrying?

CS: Of course you can get a custom ZenCog, but a single speed coaster road bike is not for everyone. The other brands we carry are Surly, Origin 8, Vilano, Soma frames, and Pake frames. We are searching for a quality commuter bike, (3 and 7 speed) to offer and will announce it on the website when we find the quality brand we want to represent. Garf has frequently talked about Marin, and that may be it. We will mostly be carrying steel frames. Nobody in town really does that anymore, so we see that as our niche.

Bike Jax: Will ZenCog be catering to specific type of rider?

CS: We will cater to all riders, however we will not be for everyone. We specialize in single speed and fixie steel bikes and conversions. However we can build a fully geared road, mountain, touring, or commuter bike.

Due to our low inventory model and off beat presentation we will not appeal to everyone. If someone wants to buy a pre-built carbon fiber or aluminum bike right now - today, we cannot serve them well. There are many fine shops on the Westside that can do that. Close by there is City Cycle, Open Roads, and Lakeshore. All really fine shops with passionate owners. They appeal to many folks, and suspect have a loyal following.

We are there for those that just don't fit in there. We are gambling that there is enough of that market that we will appeal to.

Bike Jax: What is a ZenCog Bike?

CS: We must differentiate here. ZenCog is an attitude. It is about being unique, and not just following. The ZenCog Bicycle Company builds custom steel frame bikes, whether it be a ZenCog original coater road bike, or a Surly, Soma, or Pake. We will even try to add the little known but highly coveted Waterford and Gunner frames. If someone wants a frame built just for them, we will be working with a young and passionate frame builder in Gainesville - Brandon Kelley.

In answer to your question a ZenCog bike is one that makes the rider feel good. If a rider feels good on their custom bike, they will ride it more. If they ride it more, they will be happier, and maybe even live longer. The only way we can gauge our success is with smiles. In the end, we want to sell smiles. How cool is that?

Bike Jax: Does ZenCog also offer service and repairs?

CS: Service and repairs is what feeds us. Upgrades and conversions go along with that. It is Steve, the master mechanic that will drive the success of the shop. You won't be coming in, buying a bike, and getting free lifetime service. We just couldn't charge enough for the bike or components to make that business model work. That is like insurance. You offer it free, but really don't expect 90 percent of the customers to take you up on it.

We sell service, let's be perfectly clear about that. A long time ago, someone asked me what I was worth. I struggled with that and undersold myself. It led to failure, and I learned from that mistake. You must get paid what you are worth. So here is our model. We think retail pricing on parts is excessive. Therefore we will be less expensive than other local shops, and maybe a tad higher than Internet stores. That will be a bargain for our customers. When it comes to service it is like going to any professional, and it will cost. When was the last time you bought a car and got free tuneups for the life of the car?

I don't mean to dwell on this point, but merely to set the expectations of our customers. If you want the best service available, come see us and help keep us in business.

The final thing I will say on service is that we will service every bike out there. Whether you just picked it up at a garage sale for $25, or paid $2,500 for a carbon fiber beauty at another shop. Steve has worked on them all and will treat each with the same courtesy and professional attention you and your bike deserve. We are not judgemental, that is what ZenCog is about. No attitudes.

There you have it. A local bike shop that gets you on the bike you want, with the service you want. All without the judgment that other shops dole out like candy on holloween. Stop by and check them out.

ZenCog is located at:
883 Stockton St. Jacksonville, FL 32204
If you want to give them a call: 904.219.7777
Find them on the net HERE.

Why Mass Transit Rocks

2010-01-19T22:49:00.001-05:00

For the 9th year, over 3000 people took part in the New York No Pants Subway Ride.

Got a Fixer Upper?

2010-01-12T15:59:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I stopped by the Bicycle Clinic to chat up Alex. As Jacksonville's only mobile bicycle repair shop you can imagine that he stays pretty busy and I was lucky to catch him at his shop.

As we talked he continued the repair and tuneups of customers bikes. After finishing a Ponte Vedra couples high-end mountain bikes. He went to the back of the shop and rolled out this sweet old cruiser and placed it in the stand. When I asked him about it, he told me that he had been doing a lot of complete restorations lately. And this one was a 1949 JC Higgins with great bones and style.

The owner of of the bike didn't want to trash it and since he would have to spend a few hundred on any decent bike. Why not just spend the cash on restoring this one and have a bike that is completely original and unique.

That Was Then.
As I watched Alex carefully strip the bike down piece by piece. I was already crafting this post to show you guys the before and after. Why? As those of you that know me, know I ride a couple of pretty old steeds. I'm all for supporting the local bike shops. But just because your bike is looking old doesn't mean it has outlived it's usefulness.

If your bike fits your needs and you love riding it. Why then should you have to feel like you need ditch it for something new? You don't. What if you find an old battered treasure in the trash or at a garage sale and what to fix it up and finally have that dream bike you've always wanted? You can.

Here is what that 1949 JC Higgins looked like before and after.

Alex works pretty much 7 days week. If you have a bike that could use some TLC or maybe you would like a whole new paint scheme up to a complete restoration or build up. Give Alex a call. If you're in Jacksonville, Alex will pick up and deliver free of charge.

If you are outside of Jacksonville Alex says he is offering free return shipping on restorations.

You can contact Alex at 904.422.1144

His website is The Bicycle Clinic.

A Full Weekend of Bikes, Art & Music

2009-12-10T22:13:00.005-05:00

For you moaners out in the burbs always whining that "there's nothing to do in Jacksonville." The Urban Core is having a full weekend of Bikes, Art and Music. All that warm juicy goodness that feeds our souls.

Friday:

The Femme Fatale is part 1 of a celebration of the one year anniversary of the monthly Woman's Ride. The show will be showcasing the work of some of Jacksonville finest female artists.

Femme Fatale Art Show
Dec. 11th 6-9pm
229 N. Hogan

Saturday:

If the second year of the Bikes, Beats and Bags artist series is anywhere near as good it's inaugural, you are in for one hell of a good time. If you're still looking for that special one of kind gift, this is the place to be. Burro Bags has once again joined forces with some of Jax's best artists and designers to create some of the finest one off messenger bags you'll ever find.

There will also be a raffle and along with local made goods from other vendors.

BBB Complex Art Show 2
Dec. 12th
1520 N Main St. (between 5th & 6th)

Sunday:

Sunday brings us two amazing events.

First up is the part 2 of the celebration of the one year of the monthly Woman's Ride. Despite being called the The Woman's Ride, it is open and welcoming to all.

The Woman's Ride
Dec. 13th
Birdies in 5 points (formally Starlite)

Lexington, KY musician Ben Sollee will be rolling into Jack Rabbits on his Xtracycle bringing us his Pedaling Against Poverty tour Sunday.

Find out more about Ben and the tour from his interview with Jack Diablo at EU Jacksonville You can find all the Ben Sollee goodness from his Website.

Ben Sollee Pedaling Against Poverty tour
Dec. 13th
Jack Rabbits - 8pm
1528 Hendricks Ave.

Hard Core Commuter (at least by Florida standards)

2009-12-04T17:35:00.001-05:00

I drove up on this hearty soul traveling along the Southside Service road this evening.

He gets my respect for braving the cold and wet conditions despite the fact that he is putting himself at a greater risk of being stuck by vehicles that may squeeze past him gutter riding. He should be controlling the very narrow 10 foot lane.

I Bike Jax Fever Catching On

2009-11-23T16:12:00.001-05:00

I just received an email that contained this cell phone image of the back of a JSO car sporting an "I Bike Jax" sticker.

The fever is catching on. Get your gear here and here.

A Couple For The Weekend

2009-11-21T01:45:00.001-05:00

Here are a couple of videos that are the darlings of bike webs this week.

Hipsters Discussing Cyclocross

This next one may require the use of earbuds or headphones if you're at work.

All You Haters Can Suck My Balls

Bikevember Fest at Riverside Arts Market

2009-11-20T11:52:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is Bikevemfest at the Riverside Arts Market. We'll have everything you could need bicycle related. We'll have bikes of all styles and sizes on display and available for test rides from area bike shops. Cycling specific clothing and hand made bicycle art and jewelry from local artists. There will also be free bicycle checkups and repairs provided by the Bicycle Clinic. And of course we will have all the free safe and secure bike parking you'll ever need with the bike valet.

Still want more?

At 3pm Join the Tour of St. Johns Fun Ride. (ave. not county) All proceeds are to benefit Lee High School where the ride will officially start and end. A group will be gathering at the RAM bike valet and riding over to the start at 2pm.

Don't live within the Urban Core but still want to ride your bike to RAM and be part of all the bike goodness. Here are some options.

Spotted At Riverside Arts Market

2009-11-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

City Council member Don Redman sporting his "I Bike Jax" tee around the Riverside Market this past Saturday.

Still don't have yours yet? You can order line HERE for $12. Or you can pick up one every Saturday through December 19th at the BIke Valet in the Riverside Arts Market for $10.

The Bicycle Clinic - Bring the repair shop to you

2009-11-13T13:31:00.000-05:00

Despite the mechanical simplicity of the bicycle. They all still to need to receive some periodic TLC. So what do you do when your bike needs a new part or the gears adjusted? Most load up their bike on the car and drive to the local bike shop.

But what if kids, work and any of life's other multitude of commitments don't allow the time to go to a bike shop? Your sweet ride ends up sitting in a corner of the house or shuffled around in the garage until you can find the time.

What if your bike is your only source of transportation and you can't live without your bike for a couple of days. Most people can't, and your local bike shop sure as hell ain't in the business of giving out service loaners.

This is where the Bicycle Clinic mobile bike repair shines. Alex Milicic grew up in Croatia and later moved to Germany where he spent several years learning the trade of bicycle repair and maintenance before immigrating to Jacksonville. After moving to Jacksonville, Alex spent a few years working with a local bike shop where he saw a need for mobile repair after repeatedly listening to customers complain about their trials and tribulations with getting their bikes to the shop for repair.

One thing that really stood out for me upon meeting Alex is his commitment and love of bicycles. And unlike certain local shops, you will not get an attitude if your bike happens to be a POS from one of the big box stores. Alex will happily put it in top condition. "A well tuned bike is a safe and happy bike" is all you'll hear from Alex.

His prices are more than reasonable. He will come to your home or place of business and do a complete $45 tune up that includes:

Inspection and adjustment of all components to assure they functioning correctly
Inflating tires to proper pressure
Lubrication of chain, hubs, headset (if needed)
Adjustment of brakes and gears
Inspection of Cables and housings
True wheels

And should your sweet ride require replacement parts you pay only for the part. All labor is included at no extra charge. And don't think Alex is limited to just basic tuneups. The Bicycle Clinic mobile shop is equipped to handle everything from the simplest flat repair to the most complex frame build up.

And here's the kicker, The Bicycle Clinic is available 7 days week from 8 am to 8 pm. And also offers after hours emergency service.

To help introduce Alex and his great service he will be setting at the Riverside Arts Market Bike Valet (Which is free by the way) to do free bike checkups this Saturday (11/14) and the following Saturday (11/21). Come by get your bike some love.

You can find more information and contact Alex and The Bicycle Clinic through his site.

Jacksonville: The Honors Keep Rolling In.

2009-11-10T15:18:00.000-05:00

On October the 19th The League of American Bicyclists release their list of Fall 2009 Bicycle Friendly Communities. And Jacksonville was included at the bottom of the list with an Honorable Mention.

Really? Jacksonville a bicycle friendly community? Weren't we just recently denied that distinction by the same group? Ok, so Jax is not officially a bicycle friendly city. But, to paraphrase a quote from Monty Python's Holy Grail, according to the League of American Bicyclists, "We Got Better."

When asked, Meghan Cahill, Director of Communications for the League of American Bicyclists cited the following as justification for the Honorable Mention:

"Highlights of the application included the 3’ passing law promoted on signage on JTA transit vehicles; a good percentage of roads with bicycle accommodations like bike lanes; the Bicycle Safety & Helmet Promotion Bike Fair in all 111 schools and the Mayor’s yearly Bike Month Proclamation."

"Kernan BV Recreational Path extension, Talbot Island - Timucuan Bike Trail extension. (Bike Jax Note: Timucuan Bike Trail is dead until additional funding can be found and is also solely for recreational use.)

FCMPO Commuter Services Program

Bike to Work day promotions

JTA Bikes on Buses program

Traffic skills 101 classes"

Which appears to be an impressive list of accomplishments. That is until you actually try and ride your bike somewhere only to find yourself stymied by bridges you can't access or frustrated by the fragments of bike lanes that disappear as fast as they appear while being honked, yelled, threatened and overall abused by Jacksonville drivers. Is Jacksonville worthy of even a Honorable Mention as a Bicycle Friendly Community? I personally don't think so. Will it ever be? Yes, it will. I know the people working to make it so. And if those same people are allowed to follow through by our city and state leaders, I think in the next five to ten years Jacksonville will become a very friendly city towards those that wish to bike to work, shopping or play.

Johnny Jones Ghost Bike Missing...Again

2009-10-29T16:35:00.001-04:00

Bike Jax has just learned that the Johnny Jones Ghost Bike has yet again gone missing for the third time. We will of course replace it as soon as possible.

But a far sadder note than the missing ghost bike is the continued suffering and hardships faced by Johnny's widow and the business they started together. On talking with Cindy Jones today, I learned that she recently had to close the restaurant that she and Johnny had spent years building. "When a restaurant loses a chef of Johnny's caliber, it's hard to continue attracting the clientele you once did" say's Cindy Jones on the closing of their restaurant.

Upon closing the restaurant Cindy donated the entire kitchen to the Clara White's School of Culinary Arts a program Johnny helped set up.

The death of a cyclist doesn't stop effecting those in their life. In this case, Johnny's death continues to effect not only his wife, but his former employees, those who called the Genesis Cafe their special place and all those future chefs at the Clara White Mission who will never receive Johnny's mentoring.

Navigable Roadways

2009-10-21T13:44:00.000-04:00

Even before Florida was a state the movement of people and goods was a concern to those in power. With the public highways of the early to mid 1800's not land based but being the waterways of this great state. The leaders at the time of Florida's statehood in 1845 thought the protection of those right-a-ways so important that they created the The Public Trust Doctrine: Protection of Navigable Waters.

What is Navigable Waters?

As applied in Florida, the Public Trust Doctrine protects water bodies that were navigable in fact at the time of statehood in 1845. In 1909, the Florida Supreme Court defined the term "navigable in fact" as meaning "navigable for useful purposes common to the public in the locality where the waterbody is located."

The term "navigable for useful purposes" must be understood in the context of the transportation system that actually existed at the time of statehood. In 1845, the only railroad in the state ran from Tallahassee to St. Marks, and operated on wooden rails with carts pulled by mules. Engines didn't arrive until eleven years later. The status of land transportation routes is evidenced by two provisions in an early act of the territorial legislature. The first provision declared that a public road was in satisfactory condition so long as the tree stumps left in the road were less than 12 inches high. The second provision declared that bridges and causeways used in connection with these roads could remain out of repair for as long as 15 days unless repair was "hindered by extremely bad weather," in which case the bridges could be out for even longer. As a result, lakes and streams were by far the most reliable public highways for moving goods and people. An early congressional act recognized the public status of these highways when it declared that all the "navigable rivers and waters in the districts of East and West Florida shall be, and forever remain, public highways."

That was then, this is now.

City and state leaders are still concerned with the protection of the right-a-ways for the movement of people and goods on our roads and highways. As long as you're doing that movement by automobile. If you chose any other source of transportation, like say a bicycle, your options for travel are most likely not the most direct or safest choice. Oh sure, the state says you as a cyclist have access and a right to all roads. But are those roads available the best and safest options for you? What if there is a shorter safer road that lies between you and your destination but you are restricted from using it for one reason or another. Would you still use it?

Meet Glen Kernan Parkway.

By looking at a map you would think that Glen Kernan Parkway would be an ideal link between Hodges Blvd. and Kernan Blvd.. But you would be in for a surprise once you made it there by bike. Especially if you entered Glen Kernan from Hodges Blvd.

The problem is Glen Kernan Parkway turns out to be a private road...Partly. If you turn on to Glen Kernan Pkwy from Hodges Blvd. It is a public road for the first quarter mile. Upon which you run into the gates of doom.

So why are commuters risking arrest for trespassing rather than finding another route? If you look at the map above you'll see that Glen Kernan is the only roadway that connects the two major roadways of Kernan Blvd. & Hodges Blvd.. The only other option for those along Hodges Blvd. is to ride the unmarked shoulder of a posted 45 mph road with actual speeds in the neighborhood of 55 mph. to the two-lane Hunt Club Rd. with 45 mph speeds and no bike lanes or unpaved shoulders to Beach Blvd. and then back up Kernan Blvd. A distance just under 5 miles.

Why the need to get to Kernan Blvd. from Hodges Blvd. so great? Lets look at another map.

The strife over access to Glen Kernan Pkwy. has only risen in the last year with the opening of the Kernan Multi-use path that runs from Atlantic Blvd on the North End to just past the entrance of Glen Kernan Pkwy. it seems that as more people become aware of the bike path, they prefer using it over the shoulder of a road with cars whizzing by at 55 mph. It's also helpful to point out that Jacksonville's largest University, the University of North Florida is also just off the Kernan Blvd. Bike Path at the south end. And at the Kernan Blvd. & Beach Blvd. intersections you have all your major retailers which also contribute to make the bike path a more appealing choice of travel.

So what's the problem? Well it turns out that residents of Glen Kernan are not happy with cyclist who use their private road as a cut thru between the two major roads. Cyclist are repeatedly threatened with arrest by Glen Kernan's private security force. But as of yet, I've not heard of anyone being arrested or charged by Glen Kernan.

Which brings us full circle to laws pertaining to navigable waterways. People are just like bodies of water, in that they will always take the path of least resistance to get from point a to point b.

I'm not saying that residents of Glen Kernan should have to open the road to everyone. Not all roads are open to bicycles, why should every road be open to the automobiles of the general public? But a few cyclists traveling quietly thru their neighborhood should pose no problem for them. I also believe that the needs of a community on the whole out weigh those of few select individuals. What I'm suggesting is that Navigable Roadways whether public or private should be navigable for useful purposes common to the public in the locality where the roadway is located. The founders of our state understood this principal. It's time we relearned it.

The Shirts Are In

2009-10-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

We at Bike Jax have been working on so many projects this year that actually posting to Bike Jax has been seriously lacking. We are working on changing that.

One of the side projects we have been working on is designing a line of bike related tee shirts and gear as source of funding for future projects and events.

Our first line of shirts are in and will available this Saturday at the Riverside Arts Market Bike Valet for the low, low price of $10.

All proceeds go to support Bike Jax projects.

Use Free Bike Valet or The Terrorists Win.

2009-10-02T15:48:00.001-04:00

Click Image For Larger View

Birthday at the Bike Valet

2009-09-25T13:01:00.003-04:00