these bushings hate me.
Still, how could I resist the first rains and the smell of steaming eucalyptus in the humid air?
(no singletrack was harmed in this excursion)
Rickshaw Bagworks Infiltration
You’ve never seen a bag like this before.
You’ll be happy to know that creative collaborations continue to exist with abandon in “the city”. Stunned by their handmade display at the tradeshow, my interest was piqued. When I learned that their product information was presented purely by word of mouth – no catalogs – I had a fonder appreciation for their interpretation of value. I decided to infiltrate their domain and learn more about what makes them tick, and finding their location proved to be the second part of the test in their incognito operation. It only fed my curiosity.
Once I learned how to get to the Historic Dogpatch district, I learned that Rickshaw Bags was founded by former Timbuk2 CEO, Mark Dwight, in May 2007. He was later joined by Timbuk2 founder Rob Honeycutt, and Macy Allatt McGinness, former marketing manager from Timbuk2. While responding to the dotcom blowup economy in San Francisco, the massive production cycles of the world’s most popular messenger bag changed their perception of value. It seemed that their inspiration to begin anew met somewhere between doing something meaningful for the creative community and participating in the sustainability movement.
Inside the warehouse, the space had been fittingly decorated with Bohemian furnishings: a tiger print carpet, screen printed display backdrops, brick walls peeking through raw canvas paintings, and half a dozen industrial sewing machines. They keep a plentiful stock of fabric on hand, with lots of variety to choose from. Many stylish fabrics are sourced within the United States, and the “Bottles To Bags” collection features designer fabrics woven from 100-percent post consumer recycled beverage bottles. After falling in love with one of the prototype designs, I asked to order one as soon as materials would be available. They started a bag for me, immediately. I selected a “Mini” version of the bag which uses a prefabricated functional “chassis” body. Rickshaw invites customers to supply their own fabric for a one-of-kind creation, as well. Observing the process of manufacturing the bag once I narrowed down my fabric choices, was quite exhilarating. The Zero model is specially designed to optimize fabric cutting and eliminate material waste in the factory. Inside each bag, you can find a token of nostalgia from the maker: a heart pierced by a sewing needle, carrying a 5-star banner honoring each of the stakeholders of the business. Their tattoo.
Rickshaw’s niche market consists of both the environmentally and fashionably conscious, while they have stepped up with cost-effective solutions for non-profits on short notice, as well. They hope to inspire others to do the same.
- words and most photos by yours truly (Eryn Hughes), photos4, 5 and 9 by Ryan Hetzel
I can attest to the fact that it only takes about 30 seconds to register as a bidder, and you don’t even have to keep your credit card number on file.
There are some great items in the auction, which were donated by various organizations throughout the Bay Area. And not all of it is bike-related… so everyone can bid! My philosophy is not to gamble when it could entail taking money out of someone’s pocket; however, I enter raffles where the funds all go to a charity and I have the chance to win schwag . I’m not sure if karma is involved, but I’ve won a tent, formula disc brakes, and even a bicycle!
Measure WW: An extension of bond measure AA for the EBRPD to maintain and enhance park facilities, including amenities for all trail users.
Who says No? “”It’s our one chance to bring any kind of leverage against the parks district.”
Now, these aren’t the only sources for information – nor the best. It is merely my intent to drive home the fact that we have more cyclists voting this election, because more of them exist. Its an effort to provide educational outlets for them, so they can make responsible decisions at the voting booth.
[polldaddy poll="1058246"][polldaddy|1058246]
How are you voting on Measure WW?
( polls)
Excitement!
XC, DS or both?
Show your support of women in the outdoor and snowsports Industries by nominating a colleague, a mentor or friend for these awards. This is open to anyone who would like to submit a nomination. Post your nominations online by mid-December, 2008. Previous nominees may be nominated again, but previous award winners cannot be nominated.
The Pioneering Woman Award honors women within the industry who have furthered the vision of the OIWC by demonstrating an outstanding commitment to mentoring female colleagues.
The First Ascent Award recognizes a woman new to the industry who demonstrates strong potential for leadership. This award furthers the vision of OIWC by increasing visibility of talented young women at lower levels in an organization, thereby facilitating and nurturing their leadership skills.
OIWC Recap
The prominent message I learned when I attended the luncheon, was that Public Speaking was the biggest fear that people had, even over death. Overcoming that fear, cleared the path for their success.
The panel included:
The following are the supplemental notes from their feedback:
See the full recap online.
Top 5 Leadership Skills for Business Success
- Care for your staff and use your nurturing instincts that are unique to being a woman.
- Learn public speaking skills and develop a comfort level speaking to a group.
- Find your unique leadership style and apply it—different styles can be equally effective.
- Don’t try to be what you’re not—if you’re not a “bike guy,” don’t try to be one.
- Don’t underestimate yourself—take risks, be assertive and speak up in meetings.”
Irony in nature
Being very active in the outdoors (not just cycling), I get sunblisters from time to time. They can be quite painful, and annoying wherever they appear. I picked up some Rhus Toxicodendron, as suggested by a homeopath. Not knowing what dosage to take, I looked up information on the web, and it turns out that its the essence of Poison Ivy! Knowing how bad I’ve responded to Ivy (East Coast) and Oak (West Coast) in the past; I’m hesitating on taking it.
On the other hand, I’ve heard that eating the leaves prevents someone who is allergic, from having a reaction when exposed. I thought this was ridiculous. I’ll be the guinea pig and let you know.
thoughts on trail design
