2011 Felt Z6

For 2011, the Felt Z6 went through relatively minor changes, but for good reason.  The carbon Z-series bikes were designed to be an all-around performer, in contrast to the F-series race bikes.  But, don't take this as a bad thing, as pedaling efficiency is still very high.

The rider of this bike is the person who has one road bike for all occasions.  This bike makes for an excellent road race bike, especially when the roads aren't perfect.  The frame allows for slightly larger tires for training days that include less-than-ideal roads.

When you factor the flexibility this bike offers with it's low weight and carbon frame, it's a tough option to beat when you need or want to keep your road bike quiver to one ride.

2012 Felt Breed

For 2012 Felt has really stepped up to the front row with their Breed.  For 2010 and 2011, the Breed was a handsome single speed cyclocross bike and was popular for it's style.  For 2012 Felt wanted to take a dose of the style they've had, but truly build a race-worthy single speed cyclocross bike.

The 2012 Breed now has a tapered 1-1/8" to 1-1/2" headtube and tapered carbon fork as well as a BB30 bottom bracket.  Add to that true horizontal dropouts with a brilliant thru-axle design that only requires you to tighten one nut rather than two.  This leads to easy chain tension adjustment and a very still rear end.

SRAM levers and BB30 cranks add style and stiffness while reducing weight, all essentials when racing single speed cyclocross!

2012 Felt F75x

The 2012 Felt F75x has been upgraded from the 2011 version with a new frame that integrates a BB30 oversized bottom bracket, tapered 1-1/8" to 1-1/2" steerer tube with carbon fork, and updated geometry.

The stock Felt wheels have been lightened along with a slight increase in durability, which is the perfect combination for cyclocross.

On the fork you'll find fender mounts if you should decide to train and/or commute on this bike.

Shimano 105 components have recently gone through a complete redesign with trickle down technology from Shimano Dura Ace 7900.  The shift cables are now routed under the handlebar tape and the updated ergonomics have been universally praised.

Window Art

Just a simple photo this morning.  We've shared some window art that was done by a local artist, but with the right light this one really stands out.

You'll notice the "IF" and outline are done on the outside of our double-pane windows, the fill is done on the inside.  This gave the logo a lot of depth and when viewed at night, looks really interesting.  At least, I think it does.

Check it:

I'm going to put some work in trying to bring you some work from some other local artists as well.  We have some photography in the shop done by friends where we'll highlight not just the images, but also the installation.  More to come soon.....

Holiday Gift Kits from Iron Cycles

The Holidays are here, and you're probably like the rest of us: scrambling to find gifts for those on your list.  Iron Cycles is here to help you out with some suggested gift packs we've assembled with our favorite bits from around the shop.  

From bike to body care, parts, accessories, and clothing, we've got the cyclist on your list covered.  We've scoured the shop for the best and brightest we had to offer in 2011 and brought it all together into one place....

Flat Fix Kit includes a Timbuk2 saddle bag, Crank Brothers M10 multi-tool, SRAM CO2 cartridge and head, two tire levers, and a tube (you pick the size).  

$50 ($79 retail)

Bike Pit Kit includes a Pedros Toothbrush and Bike Lust, Finish Line Chain Cleaner, and your choice of Zipp Service Course bar tape.  

$50 ($77 retail)

Stay Warm Kit includes our shop favorite Endura Road Overshoe and Deluge gloves as well as a pair of DeFeet wool socks.

$90 ($115 retail)

Stay Safe Kit includes our #1 selling fender, the SKS X-tra Dry, a Planet Bike Super Flash, and a Cateye UNO headlight.

$55 ($86 retail)

Stay Comfortable Kit includes a pair of Endura X-Tract Shorts, DZ Nutz (or DZ Bliss) Chamois Cream, and an Iron Cycles water bottle.

$55 ($90 retail)

Get Fast Kit includes either a set of GEAX Roadster or Continental Ultra Sport tires, two tubes, and installation.

$60 ($82 retail)

Get Pumped Kit includes our best-selling Joe Blow Max2 Pump, two tubes, and two tire levers.

$45 ($60 retail)

Stay Fit Kit includes a Giro Indicator helmet in the color of your choice and a pair of Giro Treble road shoes in black.

$110 ($145 retail)

Get Safe Kit includes our best-selling Kryptonite Evolution lock and cable, and a set of Knog Boomer USB-chargable lights.

$120 ($145 retail)

Stay Fast Kit includes two newly-released Michelin Pro4 tires and two tubes

$125 (Retail $162)

Endura Road Overshoes Review

Another review from a Team Iron Cycles member, Vanessa lends a critical eye to clothing.  She's not necessarily harder on stuff than anyone else, but is happy to share her true opinions rather than waste time sugar-coating things.  Added to that, being a petite person Vanessa can struggle to find the right equipment in a sport still loaded with products designed around men.

With that said, you should rest easy knowing that when something gets a glowing review from Lil' V, it's truly good stuff.

 

I have tried other shoe covers and the Endura Road booties are the best I have tried, by a long shot. After trying on many different brands, and finding none that fit my small feet, I bought my 1st pair of shoe covers 2 years ago. They did fit, but never stayed zipped, leaked water, and soon started to come apart at the seams!  Then I found these Endura booties this October, and though they are specified Road, I have used them with my road and my Mountain bike shoes and they work for both! They are awesome! They are SUPER warm.  They keep your feet dry, no leaking! (Though I have yet to try them in a total deluge).  AND I love the zipper and velcro strap combo. These are not going to come unzipped like my last pair (which have gone in the trash, btw). And best of all the Extra Small fits my very small foot, unlike other I tried.

 

We do our best to keep these in stock at all times, and for only $40 they make a killer gift idea for the cyclist on your holiday list.

Sock Guy custom Iron Cycles socks!

These make for an ultimate stocking stuffer.  Cheap, classy, and custom, what cyclist wouldn't be down with that!?

Better yet, the socks are comfortable, meaning there's no need to limit them only to cycling.  We routinely sport them when jeans and sneakers, they do a great job of keeping your feet happy all year!

And now a quick review from Justin, one of our resident fancy lads on Team Iron Cycles:

Being a classy man about town, I enjoy looking like I can flatten Mt. Vesuvius with a stroke of my pedal.  While the power isn't quite there, I'd like to think that looking resplendent in my white "Iron Cycles" socks is enough to look the part. They are tall enough to provide the awkward tan line that is a badge of honor for cyclists and their comfort is unparalleled.   I can use them during a road ride that takes up most of the day or during a round on the cross bike.  Did the socks get dirty?  You bet, but unlike the Mona Lisa, the socks are still looking great after many uses.  If you want to look classy out there, I would definitely suggest the Iron Cycles socks. 

That right there folks, is a gleaming review.  Grab a pair before the holidays and surprise someone with some comfort.