smallwheelsbigsmile

Slowly but surely....

2012-01-26T22:33:00.000-08:00

Lady rider @ Junction of JTC hill towards Creative

I meet this lady almost every day on my way to work. Riding a simple mini velo with her handbags on the rear rack. Stopping at the junction, she looks on to the road traffic. Green-man lights up, she steps on the pedal and in a few pedal strokes effortlessly zips pass pediastrians to her work place. No fuss, no branded bicycles.. no ra ra show. Just a really nice way to travel to work. Times are changing.... it is really possible to cycle to work. Have you tried it?

Rider profile - Aaron Chan

2012-01-25T03:14:00.000-08:00

Quick....

Aaron with his other half, Yishan

close up of the sweet couple

Aarron with his buddies, L- Gabriel, Paul, Fendy, Derrick at LCSG Treasure hunt

OAR Tao hwey....

Aarron doing the ride briefing before the mission to "attack" OAR mission...

I am very glad to introduce Aarron Chan who recently organises a very well-recieved "I have a date with Tao hwey at OAR". He together with his buddies, Paul Tan, Gabriel, Leon, Derrick and Reyes have been riding together and also joined the LCSG family. Sometimes seen with his very nice other half - Yishan, Aarron loves riding and also is the unoffical LCSG record holder of Lau pan Tao hweh - One shot 46 tubs!!!!! Anyone want to challenge him?

On that note... Brudder, thank you and ur buddies for contributing to the fun of Lovecyclingsg! Much much appreciated! Now, read more about the man himself!

* Tell me about yourself
Hi! My name is Aaron. I work as a mobile solution product manager at a local telco. A made in Hong Kong product but imported to Singapore over 20 years ago and pretty much regard myself as more Singaporean than Singaporean. I am just a typical neighborhood geek who loves gadget, gaming and fixing PC for others and now a regular MAMIL (middle aged man in lycra).

* How did you started cycling
I had three market bikes before my current Dahon. The first one when i was in poly, I cycled once from hougang to Temasek Poly in order to impress my then "gf" But that was the only ride. My 2nd bike came along when I experimented cycling from home to hougang mrt during Uni days, and i stopped after it got stolen. I bought a AEON foldie for park-and-ride(bike) to get to my work place in CBD two years ago, that went on for six month. But honestly cycling has never been a hobby for me then, nor was it any fun to me. It was basically a necessity and i actually hated it because i felt it boring, dangerous and tiring.

I decided to re-pick up cycling some time last year after a chat with a friend. I realized that I am at the point of my life where I have most things but something seems missing. At that point i realise I probably needed a hobby, something that I can look forward to doing every week and it should be both fun and physical. After experimenting with a few things, eg.. RC Helicopter, Tennis, Jogging, Thai Boxing… I found cycling!

* Why do you like cycling
Cycling is cheap! (okay, thats a lie)
Cycling is healthy. After started cycling, i managed to clear my IPPT easily, my tummy stopped expanding too (but it is still there)
Cycling brings you to places! (couple of e.g., kranji and bollywood area, punggol-lor halus, garden by the bay and more)
Cycling is environmentally friendly and requires min equipment (also another lie), but I know i can always throw the bike in the boot, drive to somewhere scenic and off I go! (pengarang and taiwan anyone?)
Cycling brought me into a group of over 1000 like minded people, I do not know everyone there but i can easily count > 40 of them as my friends!

* When u met LCSG - how was it like and how u meet us
Last year around Aug, someone mentioned to me that there are a few big cycling groups in Singapore and I should check them out.
I found LCSG on Facebook and coincidentally, Taiwoon+Bernard was organizing a National Day Ride around north-eastern route.

On Aug 9th 2011, i reported to punggol park and honestly i was overwhelmed! More than 40 people of all ages, all bike types from all parts of Singapore gathered in one place "7 early 8 early" to cycle lo! I rode my brand new Dahon Vitesse D7, met a lot of friendly people. I remembered seeing steven, taiwoon, bernard, KSL&Eman, Francis and many more regulars. We hanged out for lunch after the ride, but I am sure none remembers me, hahaha. But the main take-away from that day… is that this group is like a big family la and we welcome all type of bikes!

* Your steel horses- names and more details.
Main ride: Dahon Vitesse D7 --> Dahon Vitesse x20d
I bought a Vitesse from Lifecycle last year. I should have listened to Simon when he told me that I am going to "outgrown" it soon enough. Since then, I have slowly modified my vitesse w shorter handlebar stem, seat post, then full ultegra set w bullhorn and now drop bar!
2nd ride: Dahon Eco C6 , bought this for my fiancee

* Your favorite cycling kakis
Too many to name la! Almost everyone in LCSG, especially the regular attendees. But to name a few really close ones, I am glad to have met Paul and Kenneth during a mandai night ride (which only 3 of us came). Thru them, i met Fendy, Leon, Gabriel, Derrick, Edwin and we have remained really close (not in the weird way). Especially after going thru a few unfortunate incident, I realized that we really do CARE. The things done by these guys and LCSG for the injured really touched my heart.

* Your favorite cycling route and LCSG ride
Fun ride: Treasure Hunt @ Punggol, really cool la!!
Training ride: Mandai-YD
Scenic ride: Bishan Kallang Garden by the bay ride (of cuz… since i organized it :P)

* Your role at LCSG
I am just a nobody la… maybe can give me the post of Chief Tau Huay Wang Zi.. but mainly i just like to help out in safety marking, sweep or occasionally plan some rides

* Your feelings after and during organising LCSG rides
During organizing: It is really tough work! Kudos to regular planners.. I didn't know so much effort goes into route planning (via GMaps, OneMap) and then physically receeing it.. Noting all the dangerous point etc. Not easy wor, but it is also really fun at the same time. Special thanks to our recee warriors who came by to help out.

After: I dunno yet! will post after tomorrow.

* Tips to share with fellow riders
When you getting started, don't be shy. You may feel intimidated at first but we are really really sweet people(who likes to poison ppl). Come by, say hi and join us in our rides. For the rest, don't stop cycling!

* Life Motto
Never stop moving, don't let life fall into routine. Always challenge yourself and keep life entertaining …

Rider profile - Steven Lim

2012-01-23T23:30:00.000-08:00

Steven with his Colnago road bike

"I know I lor sor.... but safety is your personal responsiblity... " Steven selflessly keeps going:)

Steven sharing his thoughts on proper cycling position on the road

Steven Lim is a cyclist with a passionate spirit. He takes it on himself to spread safe cycling and shares selflessly on how to survive and ride safely on the roads. Leading by example, he normally assumes the role of a sweeper, helping out those who lag behind. Giving encouragement and spreading the safety message. One at a time.... I really applaud his tenacity and efforts for the cycling community. Now read more of this gentleman and give him a pat on the back. Or a kopi is good too. Keep on spinning Steven!

Introduction
Steven Lim, 45 years old, married, no kids, Diploma in Sales and Marketing, self employed in car industry.
President of Singapore Cycling Task force (SCTF)

How I got started….
I started cycling during secondary school days in the 80s influenced by my school mates. My first bike was a 2nd hand modified market bike which I bought for $50 form my school mate and I started riding to school from AMK to Mount Vernon without my mother knowing... hahaha.... then got her permission to buy a racer about a year later which was a 2nd hand Viner steel bike on Shimano 600 group set. Had it for like 8 years, and my cycling activities drop during NS days between 1986 -1988. Got my 3rd bike in 1990, a brand new OLMO steel bike with Shimano 105 group set, had it with me till 2004 when I gave it away. But during this period I was not riding a lot, on and off, may be only less than 5 times a year... mainly because no kakis. Then in 2005, my buddy (secondary schoolmate) started doing triathlon and needed a cycling kaki to train with him so he jio me to ride with him, then I thought it may be good for me also as a form of exercise since I can't do much of other sports as I have a broken leg with implants before, ankle kind of weak. So I started looking around till I found my current 2nd hand Colnago Master Olympic steel frame, put it up with 2nd hand Shimano Dura Ace 8 speed group set, then later upgrade to Campy Record 8 speed group set and Campy wheels, I just love my Colnago, it's a vintage and it's a gem. Very Sturdy, firm and comfortable bike except for the weight, but that's fine with me. And it has taken me through quite a number of long distance ride (about 300km or more) in Malaysia and the recent round island 300+ km ride... very happy and proud to own this master piece even though it's old.

Why cycling?
I love cycling because it is a good exercise to keep myself fit and healthy. Also, it gives me a sense of achievement when I conquer the tough slopes, grueling weather and distance, and I am happy I can combine my interest in cycling and helping people (as in charity ride). My usual cycling kakis are my school mate and a few more, usually is about 4-5 of us all on road bikes. We usually do speed and distance training, for them is for races like triathlon, for me is purely for fitness. But I do like to take time off this routine to join LCSG rides for something different and more relax rides plus a big friendly family.

How did u meet Lovecyclingsg?
I knew about LCSG through Francis and Zack and decided to join in the group rides in May 2011. i found the folks very friendly and open, always willing to share, and help each other. And one most important factor, the folks are humble and very keen to learn. That struck me to initiate a Safe cycling Clinic with Francis. i am really impress with the FOLKS willingness to learn and for that, i am willing to share anything, anytime.

Favorite routes?
I don't have a favourite cycling route, it really depends on mood, hahaha... as for LCSG rides, i think the kranji ride, bukit brown ride and round island ride were good.

Role in LCSG
My role in LCSG, I'll do anything as requested, but particularly stuffs pertaining to safety. i will be sweeper whenever I join in the ride (it's my usual role in all rides I join), and I will share safety tips, ideas with fellow riders, and of course... I nag..!! hahaha....
I see LCSG as a very cohesive group with many humble, helpful, friendly folks and have strong mutual respects. A group worth spending time with.

On safety
Safety is individual's responsibility, we ride properly and safely, this way we can keep ourselves and other road users safe, this way we are in a better position to tell other road users to respect us a valid road user, to share the road and to keep each other safe.

Life Motto
My life motto which I apply them in operating my life as well as in riding, Treat Others The Way You Would Like To Be Treated...... Respect Others To Gain Respect. Ride Hard! Ride Safe!!

Remembering our playground ride - the whole works...

2012-01-20T22:22:00.000-08:00

They don't do them like they used to..

Feel like a child again...

Kungfu...

Visit them with friends... capture it in memories ... they will be gone...very very soon

Sorry for not writing as regularly as I would like. I have been thinking on more interesting rides and events for lovecyclingsg. And now I got one I like to share. Playgrounds!Yes, you heard me. Playgrounds. Not just the Toa Payoh one but the all of them...
We go explore all the Old Style Playgrounds around Singapore. Why? Because they are slowly being phased out, replaced by more plasticky and "safer" one. No sand but rubber matt.. No more Dragon heads not Dinosaurs. Just plastic and very neutral looking playground.
The challenge was how and where do I find them.... oh lalala... Simple, just search and type... I love the internet! Stay tuned around April ...
http://www.explorers.asia/2010/08/forgotten-playgrounds_12.html

View Old Singapore Playgrounds in a larger map

Rider profile - Rohani Ibrahim

2012-01-20T05:02:00.000-08:00

Ro on the left with her new friend Derek Leong

Ro and Vanna- the foldie

Ro and LCSG folks Riding in formation.. with Clarence keeping a close eye for potential dangers...

Ro and her Carry me...

Rohani or Ro in short recently joined LCSG and is famous for her mega watt smile. She works at M1 in the Customer Service Dept. She does training for new staff joining M1 call centre and maybe this is why she can smile so nicely...got good training. This is her cycling story and remembering her childhood days.....

"I remembered my love for cycling developed at the age of 9. I used to steal rides on my dad’s racer given by a family friend. I love being on the seat and how the wind would brush off my face and made me feel so carefree. The bicycle however didn’t stay for long after several reckless falls I had on the bike. Even so, the urge to own a bike over the years stayed and I always stared in envy each time I see a bike on the streets.
I returned from a 3.5 years work attachment in KL last May and began to indulge more time into my love for sports and nature. It was on one of the visits at East Coast Park that I got attracted to folding bicycles. The search for a folding bike began from here. Mr Google exposed me to the many different types of bikes available in the market.
It wasn’t long before I set aside a budget for my 1st bike purchase. Vanna, a white Dahon Mu P8 is my first love (Big money…Big money…I’m riding on the Wheel of Fortune…Hehehe!). I wanted my first bike to be both of performance and portability as I wanted one to commute between home and the office. I was also drawn on articles and blogs promoting cycling as a form of commute in Singapore. Generally, I reserve a day per week for this activity.
It was through the search for my first bike that I chanced upon Love Cycling @SG. It was also through a colleague (Orange man, David Ng) who added me into the Facebook group. The photos that fronted the LCSG webpage made me sensed the group was close knitted and family like and my instincts were proven right during my first ride for the KTPH official opening. The first people that I met from the group were Steven Lim, Elaine Pan, Lay Yuan, Audrey Cheong and Cindy (Monotine White). They made me feel comfortable although I was new to the group. I have sinced participated in more rides with the group and made many more friends.
Each LCSG ride is always interesting as it’s held at different locations, had different riders and there’s always a new find. I chanced upon new places as I cycled although my other hobby of walking/running also allowed me to do just that. With the 2 wheels, I was able to venture to more places and faster. Accessibility is another factor as to why I liked cycling. I wouldn’t have ventured into secluded places like Ulu Kranji on my feet but with the 2 wheels, I have explored to these locations and found new places of interests.
My love for bicycles and cycling has grown over the months. I hope to share this joy with many others soon. This is definitely a great way to meet new friends, venture new places and have a great workout!"

Be happy...

2012-01-19T21:36:00.001-08:00

Found this simple yet very profound video about life. Simple words to live by. so simple... yet so hard. Or is it? I found myself reflecting on what I do, my fears and dreams... aiyoh..too emo.. Still it is a very good video to watch, soak in and ask... are u happy? Enjoy!

The field of dreams mentality by Jonanthan Daly

2012-01-19T15:26:00.000-08:00

Lengthy article but expresses very clearly what is needed to change our travel behaviour.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/54097985/The-Field-of-Dreams-Mentality-Jonathan-Daly

Rider profile - Diane Flaviano

2012-01-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

up up and away!

Diane in her self depreciating humor style.

Diane with her new express Tikit and she is flying with it!

* Tell me about yourself
I moved to Singapore in 2010 after three years in Malaysia. It was a career move as well as a "bike" related move. I wanted to ride my bike more often, and KL isn't the best place for it. Singapore won me over with it's somewhat bike-friendly infrastructure (PCN's; can take foldies aboard public transport), and the safer environment (for a girl).

* How did you started cycling
I got my first trike as a toddler and learned to ride a bike without training wheels at a fairly young age. I've had a myriad of bikes over the years but they took a backseat as real life took hold. I was in Malaysia in 2009 when saw a couple tourists cycle in front of a mall, fold their bikes, and roll inside. I WAS AMAZED! I'd never seen a folding bike before. I chased them down to ask them about their bikes (Dahon Ciao D5!) and bought a Dahon Mu P8 for myself soon after.

* Why do you like cycling
Riding a bike costs me nothing in transport fees, and gets me to places faster than walking. I hate walking! It allows me to have a different perspective as you have a different point of view on a bike than in a car/bus/mrt, and I can stop when I see something interesting. Best of all, it's fun!

* When u met LCSG - how was it like and how u meet us
I found Taiwoon's blog Small Wheel Big Smile while researching on the Tikit and Brompton, via either Bro Al's blog or the JZ88 blog. It became part of my reading list. When I finally moved to Singapore, I wanted to join the rides but I felt awkward meeting with strangers. I asked a friend to go with me and we signed up for the Changi Gun ride in late 2010. LCSG rocked! I didn't get to meet a lot of people that day but everyone was friendly! There's always have this expectation that if you join a bike group, they'll be riding fast, and I didn't want something like that. I really liked the concept of LCSG because I wanted to get to know Singapore through the eyes of locals -- going to places that have sentimental value and eating food that they raved about.

* Your steel horses- names and more details.
apple green Brompton M6R -- my first and most compact foldie. used mostly as a commuter.
purple Peerless Aero-I -- used mostly as a townie/errand bike, but also the one I lend most to others
raspberry Express Tikit -- newest in the fleet!
red Gogobike Vigor -- single speed 14" folding acting as a spare bike in Manila.

* Your favorite cycling kakis
LCSG of course! VeloPH for those in the Philippines.

* Your favorite cycling route and LCSG ride
I like all the rides but my favorite route would have to be the Alexandra PCN all the way to the Sands Hotel. It's very picturesque, and there are lots of people and things to see.

* Your role at LCSG
I guess I'm a minion? I also like to take photos.(TW: no she's not....She help do up the google map for cycling and fight internet trolls...)

* Your feelings after and during organising LCSG rides
Never organized one before!

* Tips to share with fellow riders
Keep safety as a priority always and be considerate of other members in the group. And don't forget to enjoy yourself!

Rider profile - Rezal Sdk

2012-01-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

This is Rezal. Avid MTB-er and a family man who rides in style. Sometimes seen in a Dahon D3 or and arnimal and most impressively with a Targa bike... Read more and say hello to him on our LCSG sunday rides!

Cool dude Rezal with his cool red Dahon D3

Rezal's Wife and daughter zooming with the ultra cool Targa bike

just relaxing and shooting the breeze

What slopes? Easy lar!

"* Tell me about yourself

(Just a regular Joe, nothing much to shout about, honestly.)

Been married since '06 and blessed with a lovely daughter.

Had always, enjoyed outdoorsy stuffs - hiking, rock-climbing, kayaking, spelunking....

* How did you started cycling

Been riding since I got my first bike on my 5th birthday. And ever since then - never looked back Faded off for a long while due to school, National Service and working long shifts.

But, the passion never really left the soul.

I'm back on a bike and loving it just as much as on that 5th birthday.

I started cycling again when I purchased my Taga stroller trike in 2010. I was exploring ways to 'taxi' my daughter to the daycare and found that the bicycle is the perfect solution.

Did some research and came across the Taga trike and bought it on the spot.

Now, that Mommy and daughter are mobile on a bike - Daddy got to be on one too, right?

Especially more now that the Taga can become a stroller and folding bicycles are allowed on the MRT. I've been biking ever since as a family, to school, to the mall - everywhere in Singapore and practically, almost daily.

* Why do you like cycling

The simple joy, of being 'free' - travelling via self-propulsion. Wherever, whenever without having to wait on buses or paying extravagances on a family car. A low-impact and simple form of exercise that's easy and readily available.

* When u met LCSG - how was it like and how u meet us

Met Taiwoon, first time at MyBikeShop, at West Coast.

Recognized him immediately - 'Hi, my name is Taiwoon' with a pleasant smile. I've stumbled upon Taiwoon's photostream and blog before and thought that what he's advocating is indeed great!

Never thought I'd have the honor to be in it too!!

Didn't really thought of riding with LCSG till the Iron Butt ride came up in 2010 and it got me very excited. This is my first ride with LCSG. It was a little intimidating as first, looking at such a big group and not knowing anyone. But after several more rides, I'm home.

No matter how, what and why we ride - do it for the love of it!

some ride for medals

some ride for speed

some ride for style

some ride for records

some ride for paths-less-traveled

some ride off roads

some ride to get to work

some ride to stay alive

some ride to stay fit

some ride to get extremely fit

Most ride for friendship

We cycle because we are cyclist.

Keep on riding." Rezal Sdk

LCSG 2011 presentation - what is LCSG and what we do?

2012-01-09T05:01:00.001-08:00

As the team grows, I get asked many times why I do LCSG and it was time to share in a more efficient manner then la-ing kopi to explain. I felt it was also appropriate that we celebrate the wonderful rides we did and many interesting stuff we are doing. So on 8th Jan Sunday after a easy City ride... we met at Fort Canning Gallery to share with the crew about LCSG. Lovecyclingsg would not have been possible without the efforts of some very passionate and helpful folks. Andy yap, Clarence, Boo to name afew. To make it extra special, I selected some photos of them in action with a nice "certificate" This is from all of LCSG riders to the real heros. These are the slides that was shared....

Nice Video by Matt to show the spirit of LCSG... any bike... just ride!

David Eng, the guy behind all the nice stickers... Thank you!

Later on, Bernard, Trina and Robin of Nparks and how PCN will be better improved... it is very exciting to know. Yeah!
PS: The venue was kindly sponsored by Nparks...thank you!
More photos from Tah ching here

2012 and LCSG

2012-01-01T02:40:00.000-08:00

First ride of 2012 @ monkey alley, upper pierce reservoir

It has been a busy year for me. Most happy achievement is to have Lovecyclingsg growing and seeing all having fun. Now many asked why do I even bother. We don't charge for the rides even though it is great fun.

Food will always remain intergal part of LCSG rides!

I call this my next stage of "national service" and I am proud to share with all the normal, unassuming stuff in our lives. Things we take for granted and don't even notice. Like the old neighbour hood, Wanton noodle, Tao hweh store and "ulu ulu" (inaccessible) places that u will never considered going. LCSG provides good opportunity to see and meet people from all different walks of life. Bonded by the love of cycling and promote cycling for everyone. Literally we can see all bikes types and brands on all our ride. Doesn't matter what you ride but that you ride. Let's keep it this way. Simple and all welcoming. Riders becoming friends and forming relationships. Such are so precious and beautiful moments.

Glad to have my friend Layyen join LCSG after a long consideration... go go go Layyen!!

Thank you for taking this journey with me and helping out along the way. Together, let's make 2012 and even happy and fun year!

Rider profile - Yeo Boon Chun, LCSG video man

2011-12-29T05:42:00.000-08:00

This is Boon Chun, a chirpy guy who helps out on our Sunday rides covering the video portion. Read his profile and how u got into cycling!

Boon Chun with his silver tip

happy to be riding!

makan with kakis and chatting about bikes of course!

Boon Chun hard at work to get the cool camera angles... this time at israwi cargo bike

cycling makes people hungry..

Rider Profile- Q&A

Tell me about yourself

Ordinary guy that has the dark tan and look of a Malay. Malays that do not know me will speak to me in malays because of my look. I quite a shy person that does not really approach people much. A fat-ass weighing over 90kg standing 1.73cm tall. Thats why cannot cycle CarryMe. I had a wonderful wife married for 4 years now but we decide not to have children (at the moment)

How did you started cycling

As a child, my mother forbidded me from doing dangerous things. Cycling was perceived as dangerous to her. I didnt got to learn cycling until 9 years old on a old-school rusty chopper bike style with 3 gear shifts. It even had a back rest. Check out this link to understand what I meant. http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/images/ManualSSPL/10319038.aspx

Its during my tertiary education time in polytechnic I started to cycle with my buddy from Lavender to Marina Bay (before the great esplanade and marina barrage was even built) to Orchard road and even as far as Bukit Batok to impress my first love. I was riding a Mongoose MTB. Sold and bought my first folding bike, the Dahon Eco 2 in March 2008 and started riding with My Bike Shop in monthly organized rides.

Why do you like cycling

When I started cycling, I treated it as a form of exercise. It sweats you out and its nice. Today, cycling to me means making more friends. Out of my 300 over facebook friends, half of it involve cycling. Cycling is becoming popular as a form of of recreation as well as a means of transportation. That is when I went deeper into folding bikes in 2008. I was even happier when LTA supports the idea of allowing folding bikes on MRT and buses. Thats why I love cycling, its became a part of our life.

When u met LCSG - how was it like and how u meet us

I get to know about LCSG via an ex-colleague of mine. He mentioned to me about Taiwoon and his blog. So I went to check it out. I didnt join LCSG ride immediately as I was still hanging out with MBS. As MBS got busier and busier, their organised rides gets lesser and lesser. I officially joined LCSG ride after visited LifeCycle when Simon mentioned about a service demo organised by LCSG. On 3^rd Apr 2011, I met up the group for Dempsey road Support Japan cum service demo ride. It was a large group. I didnt mingle or talk much as I am a shy person, haha. But I felt the warmth and kindness this group having. Its like a big family. This big family also like to take alot of pictures and the ever popular Taiwoon's pose

Your steel horses- names and more details.

- Dahon CurveD3 Folding Bike – Bought in 10 June 2010 in MBS. My commute bike to work

-Dahon SilverTip Mini Velo Folding Bike – Bought in 1 October 2010 in MBS. Conquered OCBC 40km, LCSG 128km twice, King Of the Hill, Pengerang rides

Cannondale Trail SL4 Hardtail MTB – Bought in 20 August 2010 in Cannasia @Vertex. Conquered Kukup, NUS Cyclohunt, Changi Coastal Road x 2 rounds

Your favorite cycling kakis

Obviously LCSG. My closer kakis in LCSG are Panda Leader, Secretary Boo and Sweeper Vince. These are the ones I usually ride with to LCSG meeting points. Panda Leader gaves me the deepest impression because he is the one I can remember very well in Woodlands Waterfront ride, shouting very loud. Then, I had not join LCSG yet, but I was attending the same event while riding with him.

Your favorite cycling route and LCSG ride

Do not have a favorite cycling route. But do not like heavy traffic route such as Orchard Road. My favourite LCSG rides will be Pengerang rides, the Cycle Hunt and the 128km rides.

Your role at LCSG

I am the Videoman! I like to video down LCSG rides with my faithful old Creative Vado HD
video footage here.

Your feelings after and during organising LCSG rides

Very organised rides. People are very self-initiated, humbe and caring. Funny as well, such as Mr Zack, Aunty Mary and Esther. That is why I still hang around this group

Tips to share with fellow riders

My tips are all in my videos...haha. Go check out my videos in youtube. (Advertise abit)

Other things to share.. Life motto etc

Complaining about how un-safe cyclists are is not enough. Every walk of life has good and bad people. Do not judge or condemn them only when you see the bad side of things happened. Do something about it. Create awareness, act responsibly. It all starts with me and you.

Rider profile - Bernard Lim

2011-12-26T19:53:00.000-08:00

Bernard tong panging the handy man!

Bernard @ LCSG Lelong day

Punggol PCN Recce with LCSG riders for feedback

Evaluating the corners and danger areas. How can we make is fun and safe for cyclists.

You should have seen Bernard Lim on some rides, sometimes on a yellow brompton or a carryme(I heard he sold it off after he superman once). The tall and lanky dude also recently sold his car and cycle commute to work!

A sincere and passionate guy who is doing his very best to make the PCNs as cool and fun as it can be. Pls give him a pat on the back, shake his hand for the cool work he and his team has done for PCNs. Bernard, thank you very much for involving LCSG on the PCNs discussions and hear from the cyclists directly on their concerns and issues. Keep on rolling! We are here to help!

Rider profile

• Tell me about yourself...
I have been involved in sports all my life but mainly rugby, golf in the last 20 years and now cycling (again) since Dec 2010 (1 year ago!).

• How did you started cycling (again)

Because of this new portfolio, I picked up cycling again....and they say the rest is history.....to date I have gone through more than 10 bicycles myself.......and am still searching for that NICER bike.........

• Why do you like cycling?

1. economical - buy it once and thats it...no need to pay for anything else (except if you itchy fingers and zhng and zhng

2. low barriers to entry once you buy the bike

3. you can cycle anytime anywhere and alone or if anyone

4. I used to think networking from Golf was good....but I tell you now, networking from Cycling is much better

• When u met LCSG - how was it like and how u meet us

I guess the first meeting was with Francis Chu - he came to my office and I was introduced to him. Then we met at the Japan Charity ride at West Coast Park. Subsequently we met on National Day at Punggol for the National Day Ride....

LCSG is a nice family oriented bunch of recreational cyclists - I hope LCSG stays to its core objectives, which is to keep cycling free, fun and non-exclusive and SAFE......well done!

• Your steel horses- names and more details.

sssshhhhh secret cos I still haven't found what I am looking for......but I do ride a Brompton to commute, and trying to ride old steelers (for show only) and to dabble in a few vintage ones (to appreciate craftmanship and heritage). Just bought a BMX from Tiger Tang which I shall now call it TIGER!

• Your favorite cycling kakis

Has to be Albert who introduced me to the Brompton and Uncle Thomas Soh (we ride most often recently as we stay near each other) who is retired and I wish I am retired too........

• Your favorite cycling route and LCSG ride

Anywhere in Punggol (North Eastern Loop) for the PCN

Sentosa (it is one of the best cos very few cars)

Sorry have not gone overseas to ride yet but soon

• Your role at LCSG/ Nparks

I am a salaried worker like most people, so I try to find the fun in what I do...and managing the park connectors island-wide can be a fun and challenging job. Most of the time the fun compensates for the *&@# that happens backend - but that's normal...

• Your feelings after and during organising LCSG rides

Safety is always paramount. So seeing happy faces gives you a sense of satisfaction especially when short cuts are discovered, and good food is shared. Being safe is the priority after each ride.

• Tips to share with fellow riders

Ride Safe, ride smart, be bright (at night). be a considerate rider. Know your limits and follow your own instincts. Don't fall trap to the herd mentality especially when "cheonging" traffic lights / zebra crossings...

•Life motto

Have fun. Work with Passion and be a little bit of a risk taker.otherwise Life will just be a boring journey......

Bernard LIM

26th Dec 2011 LCSG Lelong day

2011-12-26T06:56:00.001-08:00

275h Dec 2011 LCSG Lelong day , a set on Flickr.

Lelong lelong @ West coast park Photo credits Louis Lee

As you take up cycling, chances are you that you will pick up that extra seat, lights and what ever barang barang. Before you know it.. u have collected quite alot of stuff in your home. And you will get complained by the interior minister.... This is when the concept of Lelong Lelong day came about. Led by GV Sealion aka Roland, the group met at west coast road for a picnic cum lelong day. Boy was it fun or what. Lots of laughter, smiles and plenty of stuff and food to go around. Love the kampong atmosphere and carefree feeling. What a wonderful day with friends! Thanks for the food, support for this event! Lelong lelong anyone?

More photo here

Rider profile - Vince Li

2011-12-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

This is Vince Li who is currently working as a System Design engineer at WPI. I met him at the first Monster Gun ride on the 24th Oct 2010. He was riding a single speed Carrefour market bike. And he was so tired when we reached Changi Village.. I could see remember the face. Haha.. A few weeks later, he got himself a nice Polygon foldie and trained harder to keep up. Now he is a regular feature on our LCSG Sunday rides and helps out with the Sweeper duties. In addition he also lead the recent Bukit Brown ride which was very well received. Many thanks to Vince for the nice efforts! I look forward to more nice ideas and ride from you!
Please scroll down to read his interview and how he got started on riding. :)

Vince...king of accessories...what u want I can get!

Spinning along with his "Destiny one"

Vince mentoring Eman, a new but up and coming sweeper

Vince eating and sharing the route for Bukit Brown ride. His first time as a lead rider.. and he rocked!

feeling LCSG love @ Pengarang ride.... super punchek liao... first time ride so far

LCSG Sweeper with a gentle smile... and lots of encouraging words. Well done!

Vince as a LCSG treasure hunt station... making it interesting for the riders...

Vince and his carrefour bike.. Zack is behind

What got me into cycling and LCSG

Before joining LCSG, I was just the average singaporean who cycles in ECP once in a while, and later, just around the neighborhood on my cheap mtb. I do not remember the very first time I learnt cycling and who taught me, it was too long ago beyond what I can remember. Then something happened to my life and I was at one of the lowest point of life, I decided to take up a new hobby to take my mind off things, and I found LCSG amidst one of the many posts in the nostalgia blog yesterday.sg.
Why I like cycling
The first ride with LCSG was my very first experience on road, and in long distance too. Before that, I could barely make it back home even from a nearby market. The veterans in LCSG have taught me much, and from then I found joy in cycling and it keeps my mind off things, a very effective de-stressing tool for me. Being in LCSG is also part of the fun, of course!
My steel horses and their names

My very first "real" bike: Polygon Urbano 5.0 with kinetix comp wheelset + Schwalbe Marathon supreme, SRAM X-7 9sp and Deore brakeset. "DestinyOne"

My flatbar roadie: white Polygon Helios F500 "Unicorn"

My role in LCSG

Whatever boss or Panda leader assigns.. but I'm usually the sweeper.

Tips to share with fellow riders

I always like to say: "Taking a longer but safer route home is better than not making it home at all" Safety always comes first!

Time to change negative attitude towards cycling - By Gordon Reid

2011-12-19T23:39:00.000-08:00

Taken from Todayonline.... I am glad we are not alone in our thoughts.! Thank you Mr Reid for speaking up for cyclists in Singapore!
"Given the recent problems with Singapore's public transport, I would like to draw attention to the negative attitude here towards cycling.

For such a developed and green-friendly place, there are practically no safe bicycle parking areas, besides a few parks and Mass Rapid Transit stations.

If, for instance, I want to commute by bicycle to the shops or to work, there is nowhere to safely lock my bike. This includes any form of bike racks.

And for a place with little crime, there seems to be a disproportionate level of bike theft. Obviously, there is a crime racket stealing bicycles, even ones with expensive locks.

While sticker IDs are now available, what is to stop a thief from removing it? How would the police track the stolen bike?

Singaporeans are constantly complaining about crowding on public transport and the peak-hour traffic jams. I am surprised then that encouraging commuters to cycle is not a national focus.

Instead, there are blogs shaming cyclists because they lock their bicycles to signposts or fences. Due to the lack of facilities, just where can cyclists lock their bikes?

Public housing estates have inadequate and unsafe areas for securing bikes. Residents are not allowed to lock them in common areas on their floors, but if you use the old-style bicycle racks in an unprotected void deck, there is no guarantee of the bike's safety.

To expand Singapore's wonderful public infrastructure, I suggests that government officials visit places such as Tokyo, Melbourne and Copenhagen to see how bicycles are used to commute to work, school and the shops.

Please Singapore, bicycles are not just for the poor." Gordon Reid

http://www.todayonline.com/Voices/EDC111219-0000044/Time-to-change-negative-attitude-towards-cycling

Rider Profile - Zack Tay and read what he learns from cycling!

2011-12-19T02:39:00.000-08:00

From the rear

Zack on the cover of SPIN!!!

This is Zack Tay, resident Lovecycling golden poster hunk in our very nicely designed(by Joeel lee) LCSG jersey. Dun let the smiling face and slender legs fool you. Under the hood is V8 engine with twin turbo... those who tried to "chiong" with him will know. Most of all, Zack is a kind soul who can really ride.
He has already done a charity ride event in Malaysia called Bike and Blade. It is a 320km rolling hills to raise funds for St Luke hospital. Now together with Steven Lim, Tan Geeli, they will embark on another event - called Klicks for Grace to help raise fund for Yong - En Care centre. On 7th Jan, in 24 hours, they will cycle continuously to complete 400km or 3 loops around Singapore. And if this is not enough... it is on foldies ok!!!... Now this will definitely test their willpower and stretch their capacity to the max. From Zack, he said to me.. no problem.. this is all for the old, poor and needy.. I will do it. Just like that! Wow! So if you like what they do and want to help... pls visit this site and learn more. more on his story below..........

Zack trying out advanced cycling moves @ Ubin Ketam Trail

Always the gentleman, Zack tongpang Cleste after the dog bite incident

With his beloved Klein Mantra comp...MTB Classic!

surfer dude mode

Congrats... you made it! And here is his story on how he go into cycling - direct from the horses mouth.
"I started cycling since young from BMX stun bike to offroad MTB.

Stopped at age of 19 due to entering of army and after that started off with my working life and got a car as transport on Feb 2007.

In 2009, Steven Lim organised cycling as a friend's outing. From then, I got back into cycling and started to join a few cycling groups and finally ended enjoying riding with LCSG in 2010. From there, I hear cases like Francis Chu, who sold away car and uses two wheels as mean of transport, I told myself that I should be able to do that as well. My home to workplace is only 12km away. I can cycle to work to exercise and stay healthy, yet save money and its Eco-friendly. Therefore after months of hard decisions, finally sold my car in on Nov 20"
Zack Tay
Interview with Zack the hunk... :)
When u met LCSG - how was it like and how u meet us
i join LCSG when i saw the thread posted by u (Taiwoon) on SMBF and decide to join and see what this group is about since there are so many groups with different objectives
when i first join.. the group was small but cozy.. everyone was friendly even when we are strangers.. and i getta been to places that my bicycle has never been and my eyes have never seen

Your steel horses- names and more details.
my current bikes left are;
2004 Klein Attitude XV (TIG-welded ZR9000 aluminum)
2011 Dahon Speed P8 (4130 chromoly steel)

Your favorite cycling kakis
LCSG of cos..

Your role at LCSG
whatever the boss assign.. but no lead pls..
Your feelings after and during organising LCSG rides
always enjoying chatting with the kakis and dun feel like going home.. haha

Tips to share with fellow riders

keep pedaling.. bicycle can bring u to places where other transports cant..
Additional words. Charity!!!

I always wanted to help doing my part for the poor and needy but my financial aint strong i have not been able to help much.. got back into cycling for 2 yrs and started to get stronger after been training for a while with some of the LCSG riders.. so decided to use my only strength - cycling.. (see I told u he is very humble and nice one) to help in doing my best for the poor and needy just like what Teresa Hsu.. using 1 smile to exchange for more smiles
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=VAv9_IefGxM

hunk even when he eats!

Bicycles and music... why not?

2011-12-18T22:25:00.000-08:00

here's a cool collaboration with X2 Tokyo and MaywaDenki (a techno-punk inventor musician) which I got to see last year. Super cool!

17th Dec 2011 LCSG Light up a child's life event @ Pertapis Children Home.

2011-12-17T22:59:00.000-08:00

LCSG with Pertapis helpers @ Pertapis children home

This is a classic Lovecyclingsg event which is why I love being a part of LCSG. We started talking about a xmas event late Oct and decided as a team that most important part of Christmas is about giving and sharing. We chose to help Pertapis children home. Some information about the Pertapis children home. In sumary, they take care of children from 3-13 year old, usually referred by MCSY or Juvenile courts. We got to know about Pertapis through Steven Lim and Zack, who have previously helped/attended charity events at Pertapis. When I looked at the children during the intial meet up, I knew that we got to help and make a bright day in their lives.
A flurry of Facebook and forum communications later... it was set! Many riders expressed their interest and we started to help make it happen. Andy yap, in his silent and super effective manner. Stepped up and helped to manage all the pledges. It was an amazing tasked given the numerous questions and number of riders... but he made it all look so simple. Thanks, Andy for all ur hard work!

Mary, Zack, Clarence and Andy doing last min checking of the gifts... making sure no kids will be disappointed..

To make it extra special, we have requested the children to write down their preferred presents, limited to $20 value. on a small heart shape cards(made by Esther and Joel), Middle of Nov, the presents list was send to LCSG and the task of shopping was led by Mary, her daughter Kennis, Andy yap, KSL, Eman, Boo, Steven Tang, Tiger, Steven Lim and many more. Buying each gift and wrapping them up... quite a task I must say. Some interesting items included a music CD by a young singer(forgot the name..) and a sms texting device... luckily we had Kennis, Eman who knew what it was and the out of touch uncle and aunties could breathe easily at last...whew!

Really...this is one of the child's request... and it was Eman and KSL helped find it! Thanks!

On Sat, the LCSG crew assembled at Pertapis Children home at Kovan road. Show time... It was a bustling of activities, some were playing with the very young kids, while Steven Tang did an excellent job with the girls. The laughter and the energies of the St Marget girls(Steven tennis protegies) was infectious. I peeked and saw plenties of smiles...wonderful! It was raining pretty heavily then and what was supposed to be a soccer match was changed to Carrom session. Small boys and old boys played together and laughed. The rain didn't stopped the fun I must say... But of course the highlight for the kids was the presents giving time. As the names of each child was shouted out.. the rest cheered and clapped. And the child eyes lit up... and the same for our riders.

Angels Mary, Rezal and Zack... giving out the presents

One moving moment was Mary screaming "do u want another present??? whooooohoo?? and the children screamed yes!.. haha.. Never see our glam queen Mary so onz!! And I was glad and very happy. Because I saw really genuine, kind folks who came, and gave beyond what they needed to do and the sparkling eyes and heart melting smiles from all around. The children, especially was beaming ... Mus, a young boy I befriended was so happy... he keep telling me... "Nerf gun...yeahh!!! I like!"

Want another presents??? I can't hear you!!! Scream Aunty Mary

Boo giving out a present to a smiling friend

St Margret girls and Steven Tennis protegies came to help too! Thank you!

Nice buffet from Audrey and company, thanks!

Oh...forgot to mention the food. ... we were also very grateful for Audrey Wong and her company for sponsoring partially the Super delicious Buffet ... Thanks.

Simple words... but mean so much! Awesome!

I end this blog account with this. Thank you for all to make this Light up a children life event a success. Without the efforts of all of you, this wouldn't be possible. Awesome!!!! You are all angels and I am glad to be part of such a cool cycling team with such big heart. You lighted up my life and of course the children's hearts too! Thank you!

PS: Due to the sensitive nature, the children were not present in the photos.
more photo here and here

Mytransport portal by LTA

2011-12-16T03:05:00.000-08:00

waddoyouthink? http://www.mytransport.sg/content/mytransport/home.html

MyTransport.SG

Taken from Mr Lui Tuck Yew, Singapore Transport minister Facebook page.
"MyTransport.SG is a portal providing information and eServices for all land transport users, be it commuter or motorist or even cyclist. This portal was developed by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore."
Trying to positive...at least now, we can see cycling having a seperate tab...

Rider profile - Elaine Pan

2011-12-13T19:50:00.000-08:00

Elaine with her Raw lacquer M Brompton

Dahon @ Bukit Brown

Kranji 7-11 @ LCSG 128 route!

Team Turtle @ LCSG 128 night ride - Elaine is 3d from rear left

Introducing Elaine Pan, who just started riding half a year ago. I remember her first ride when she was so nervous and was struggling to keep up. Recently she had completed the 128km night ride and also been a regular feature of the Sunday ride. This is her story! Very cool!

Trigger :
1. I met a American couple in Paris last June, they cycled around Paris and so relex, comparing with me walk all days and tired. I think cycling can see more thing than walking..
2. This April, a friend of mine told me he lost few kg after cycling weekly in East Coast PCN on his Dahon Mu P8. I went to try his Dahon and decided I should ride to work and exercise.
3. I need to exercise. I plan to exercise at least two times a week. I always excuse myself because I have no time. So if I cycle to work once a week, at least I exercise two times a week. One weekday and one weekend (with LCSG)
4. Why I choose folding bike?
I started my first ride from CCK to IMM with my Dad on our "market bike" that we hardly used. We had hard time in this 9 KM journey. We wanted to give mp on our way home but we could not take taxi . We ended up with very painful butt and yet we like the ride. That is why I decided to get the folding bike. Just in case if I cannot complete my journey, I can still take public transport.

My Ride
After I got my Dahon MUp8 in July, I was so excised. I started to ride alone on the PCN nearby CCK. I also started to look for at the forum to look for cycling mates.There are quite a few there but I have no confident to ride with them as a newbie. I recalled an article I read on the Today newspaper about love cycling SG..... so I started my first ride with LCSG on the National Day. And this is the fist time I get to know Brompton. Haha, I poisoned a friend of mine to buy his Brompton first and we started some ride from CCK to Sembawang Park, Bird Park.... and I continues with LCSG to discover many places.
I came to SG 20 years ago. I used to tell my friends that SG is a very boring place, nothing much to see. But now I have a different view. i have since discovered SG has many interesting place that I have never pay attention before, and I start to enjoy this little Island.

My favorite route:
1. The ECP PCN
2. The Alexandra PCN to MBS
3. Yishun Dam to Mandai ( I like to sloop, haha)

Tips,
I do not have much. I learn a lot from you, Steven Lim and George and many more...
e.g. 1. How to wear my helmet.
2. How to pedal
3. How to ride uphill etc

I ready appreciate your encouragement and support. I enjoy riding with LCSG.... I hope to join for the oversea trip next year. oh BTW, I am a Brompton FANS. Even before I own one, I already "poison" my friends and my brother to buy Brompton.. Haha.

Music and Dummy bikes, the Pleasant Revolution!

2011-12-12T22:04:00.001-08:00

Home away from home

2011-12-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

Kevin and Gwyn will be migrating to New Zealand come Feb. When I heard it from Kim, I was abit shocked. Then sad but happy..... That is a long way from SG and it must be a big decision for them.
I know we will definitely miss this amazing couple who can sing and ride. I remembered the first time I came across Gwyn played the ukulele via Facebook..and I clicked the link. Me, Momo and Kim sat there at our coffee table humming to the lovely music. here is ths amazing tune.. that so captivated us..

And they were so nice to help out on HanBoon and Yvette proposal day.... so very very special!

Oh... not to forget the fun treasure hunt too...

Aloha... Hawaii 5 0!!

Those are wonderful memories that I will always hold dear. ... Oei, Kevin and Gwyn...remember us hor and we will come visit u ok? And Singapore, Lovecyclingsg is always here for u!

Gabriel and his AM-20 and why he rides!

2011-12-12T05:30:00.000-08:00

Very de light... the wallet I mean haha

Romping at Bukit Brown

Zipping @ Pengarang...chasing down the lobsters..

This is Gabriel Yeap, who joined LCSG recently.. and he is the red coool Alex Moulton 20 owner..this is how he got to know us..... Very good to meet u, Gabriel! Keep on riding!
"Previously my Sundays were spent over languid breakfasts and kiting in the afternoon. And it’s this group of kiting kakis that helped rekindle cycling for me. Turns out, some of them have been at it for quite some time.
A morning ride through the lovely Punggol waterway on a friend’s bike allowed me to see how convenient it is to ride about Singapore via the PCN networks and how the Government has invested in beautifying these areas of sport and leisure.
Several names were tossed about by my kiting kakis. I had to weigh factors like performance, portability and design. Smaller wheeled bicycles quickly drew my interest as I used to associate them with the more senior/domestic demographics. It quickly dawned on me that they could easily keep pace in terms of speed and performance with regular bikes.
Moulton was one of the names that was suggested by my friends. My first glimpse of the gorgeous truss-like space frame left me smitten. This lovely geometry of strength and lightness appealed to me on many levels. Moulton’s heritage coupled with its industrial chic frames spoke to my sense of aesthetic.
While scouring the Net for more information, I stumbled upon TaiWoon’s MoultonSingapore blog. There I found some links to Japanese custom shops. I have a soft spot for all things Japanese and customization options are always a plus. In no time I had saved several images of custom-made Moultons to ogle from. I also sent an email to one of these shops enquiring about the custom process, time and cost implications. Unfortunately, the waiting list was about a year.
Fast forward and after several test rides on different bikes and some friendly nudges in the right direction, I’m now a proud owner of a Moulton AM20. It comes stocked with parts that more than make up for my current lack of leg power.
The icing on the cake comes in the form of the Love Cycling SG group that my former kiting kakis introduced me to. This group of dedicated individuals invest their personal time and effort into planning and organizing these weekly rides for a huge herd of cyclists. This passion also extends to the safety and fun factor of these rides. Cycling with my kakis and/or the LCSG group is really what makes me feel best about getting a bike. " - Gabriel Yeap

Strict-Liability - will it work in Singapore

2011-12-09T21:41:00.000-08:00

I found this article from Copehagenise and it talks about the heavier vehicle responsibility on the role. Now this is not the case in Singapore and I was just thinking... with COE at 50K and care drivers getting charger left right and centre.... Can this ruling ever be possible in Singapore?
http://www.copenhagenize.com/2010/02/strict-liability.html

A hit and run case involving a cyclist

2011-12-09T21:26:00.000-08:00

Thru facebook, I got to know of this traffic accident on the 8th Dec morning It involved a cyclist who was riding in a popular cycling route - Changi coastal road, near the cargo loading area. The most horrible thing is that the motorist ran away after hitting the guy! FYI, the cyclists is still in a critical stage and in ICU. The family is appealing to the public if anyone have seen this accident.
To the driver of the silver lorry. Please think of the cyclist you have hit. What you did was wrong and running away is not solve it. Think of his family, children and friends.

Battle map of Malaya. This was how they came down

2011-12-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

How the Japs came into Singapore

2011-12-07T18:25:00.001-08:00

using this.... Poto credit -www.malaysian-explorerer.com

And this is more on the history and overall route they took from Thailand. From Anonymous Cat... check this out! Japanese soldiers enter Singapore in Feb 1942. They are seen riding bicycles along Selegie Road towards Serangoon Road.
And here too
This is a super cool uncle who is going to reroute the route..
This is also interesting.. how armies have used bicycles to move quickly... question is, is it still relevant?

Photo credit: facebook group - On a little street in Singapore

Clarie rides a bike

2011-12-07T05:46:00.000-08:00

Taking shelter from the Rain - nice

2011-12-06T15:04:00.000-08:00

In singapore we don't have winter but we can have 2 season in one day. Super hot Summer followed by the mother of the rain. To us cyclists that might mean a wet and grimy ride - more so if u don't have fenders. Some how, riding in the rain is quite relaxing really. Provided u are ready with a poncho(so u don't get drenched and shiver all over)...

I saw this Taiwanese commercial by 7-11 which has a nice dreamy pace...not about cycling but perhaps u can try this in Singapore when u get caught in the rain( Boo, are you reading this haha) Enjoy!

4th Dec 2011 Pengarang LCSG ride

2011-12-05T20:07:00.001-08:00

4th Dec 2011 Pengarang LCSG ride, a set on Flickr.

We came, we ate, we holland abit and we ate some more. This is the Pengarang Magic! Full set of photos for your download!

how apt

2011-12-05T00:29:00.000-08:00

http://www.changethethought.com/roland-tiangco/

Dummy dummy dummy

2011-12-04T17:51:00.000-08:00

Just a doodle on my ipad while waiting for my dentist...

I want to ride my Dummy!

Add caption

What inspires me....

2011-12-01T14:29:00.000-08:00

Kian Ann and Daddy KS - first time out of their comfort zone.. and smiling!

See that smile? Thats inspires me!

The blogspace is a wonderful world. I get to read and experience all different points of view. There are those who write more on techy bits and some who write about life. About inspiration. How seemingly random things can inspire.
I can relate to some of the writing and actually see this happen every sunday.Folks who laid off cycling for 10-20 years and coming back to cycle again. Yes, they are out of shape but when I see their effort, their sweat and most importantly their smiles... It makes me smile too. This inspires me.
Daddy and son who try to ride in Singapore. Scared but tries. Falls down but keeps trying. I see and can't helped be impressed. Such a team is Tan KS and his son. We met at Bukit Brown ride. It was Kian Ann first attempt in riding such a distance and it took alot of effort on him. At times, I thought he would give up and just whine. But he didn't. Daddy stood from a distance, egging him on, giving encouragement. In addition, my buddy Darren also became his angel shadowing him his every move and gave his encouragement every pedal crank of the way.

Darren, watching out for Kian Ann... yes that's spandex but he is still cool!

This are the stuff that inspires me.... a simple act of just cycling and helping others. Irregardless of what he ride, who he is.
KS and Kian Ann, u inspire me. Keep on riding! See u on Sunday rides soon!

Riding my bike

2011-11-30T01:15:00.000-08:00

Puts thing into perspective. Simple pleasures of just cycling and make ur hearts pound! Inspiring!

cycling is not new in Singapore!

2011-11-28T01:47:00.000-08:00

Wow! I didnt know this.. thanks Copenhagenize!
http://www.copenhagenize.com/2011/10/subversive-photos-singapore.html

Photo credit Singapore National Archives

It is all about mindset

2011-11-27T23:37:00.000-08:00

This is a lengthy article by Copenhagenize.com on cycling and how mindset(on cyclist, ,motorist) is critical to making cycling popular. It also talks about rules.. how effectively rules are to make motorist, cyclists behave and follow(not very well). This is what he wrote...
“Producing behavourial campaigns focused on cyclists only serves to continue the marginalisation of cycling and just hammers home the misconception that cycling is not something for everyone and is still just a sub-culture.Pointing behavourial fingers at cyclists serves no good purpose if you don't point the fingers at the other traffic users at the same time. Behavourial campaigns aimed at everyone remove this focus on cyclists and also serve to place the bicycle on an equal footing in the public psyche.”
Translated into simple English - Cyclists are not weirdos or crazy people. We are just normal people who cycles. Cycle to eat roti prata, cycle to la kopi, cycle to just enjoy our neighbour hood.... Please kindly watch out for us. In SG talk, it equates to saying we are "body wrap metal" while cars are "metal wrap body. One "kiss" from ur steel cages, we will fly... " Pls take care while u drive.
Another cool article is the Bull in China-shop article, which I can totally relate.. we are missing the "Bull" in the entire process... what a bull! ... Mikael is the man behind Copenhagenize... and he is good! Do read, tell me what u think and pls share!

Matt and Maegan enjoying a ride.

27th Nov 2011 LCSG Treasure hunt

2011-11-27T06:54:00.001-08:00

27th Nov 2011 LCSG Treasure hunt , a set on Flickr.

Action on the treasure hunt...

Dummy @ Peruvian Andes

2011-11-26T02:25:00.000-08:00

If you think Dummy / xtracycles (longbike concept) is just a family bicycle.. think again.. this is Jacob Thomson riding through some really rough terrain... amazing. More here

Riding the Spine in the Peruvian Andes from Jacob Thompson on Vimeo.

Tailwheel concept for Dummy - Good for more compact storage

2011-11-23T23:04:00.000-08:00

This is my reference for a tail wheel for my Dummy. Reason being I live in a built up apartment and need to wheelie the bike into the lift. It is ok but I feel that with small roller wheels behind, it can help make it easier for me.

concept - Photo credit to DIT

Rollers installed

Vertical storage

Aqua-Dummy ....Perhaps the army might consider for their recce team

2011-11-23T22:24:00.000-08:00

This gentleman made a inflatable pontoon using the Dummy as a main frame. Things people do on a Dummy and no, i am not thinking of doing this.

Red Bull trolley Grand prix - not bicycles bicycles....but really cool!

2011-11-23T17:19:00.000-08:00

Check this out!!!

Brompton adjustment, remove rear tyre- direct from the factory

2011-11-23T14:46:00.001-08:00

More Dummy mods for children and Dessert Storm style

2011-11-22T19:37:00.000-08:00

This gentleman bought the Dummy frame and built up the bike himself. Check out the rear rack he build from electrical cable steel conduit. I love the children footrest he did for his 2 grandchildren.

This is a guy who asked a bag maker to custom make bags for Dummy. Pretty Dessert Storm material if u ask me!

Mobile Art Trike

2011-11-22T17:38:00.000-08:00

The internet is amazing trove of information. I found this gentleman doing something cool with bikes. via Gwadzilla. Wow, I love how he uses trikes cargo bike as moving art displays. Hmm.. this gives me an idea!

Close up of the artworks

multiple photos stitched together to form a photo collage of a place. Nice!

Awesome Balestier ride video by Joeel Lee

2011-11-21T06:35:00.001-08:00

This is AAAAWWWWEESSOMMEE !!
Fullset of photos here!

Visiting SG Tarzan hideout off Mount Pleasant road

I am fasssttt! Says resident artist Joeel Lee

Rezal , Cookie monster and her Queen...riding with LCSG escorts!

from cycling, we became friends

halrow? Who called pager?

To mars and beyond!

Look into my eyes and what do u see?

Real bread

Dutch cyclists talk helmets and bicycles

2011-11-20T19:03:00.000-08:00

Rome wasn't build in a day.... how long will it take for Singapore to have a cycling culture? 5,10 or 20 years? Well, lets start building a cycling culture. One brick at a time.... I know we will get there..eventually. Are u with me?
Watch what Dutch cyclist say about cycling and helmets. Inspiring!

Cycling situation in Hong Kong

2011-11-19T01:53:00.001-08:00

Coming closer to our home country Singapore. Hong Kong cyclists are also having their share of the problems. Here is a video which to me as similar situation in Singapore. Difference is, they are now being discussed and featured in the news.

Grocery shopping with Dummy - intial ride feedback

2011-11-18T20:14:00.000-08:00

It is true, a cargo bike is fun.. is useful and will change ur perception of cycling and how u use bicycles. Think of it as a SUV to carry any and everything. Today I had my wife and momo riding with me to the nearby market. It was about 3 km away, short by cycling standards but walking there will take a while.

We tested ride with 2 behind around the void deck, learning to lean together on the turns. Momo the co-pilot was reassuring mummy" relax, mummy... and dont move...is very fun"

Peekaboo

Momo waiting patiently for Mummy to buy veggies and breakfast

You can see Ah mo is very comfortable with Dummy seating position

Lots of room for barang barang!

I want to shout!!! Solid lah!!! but shhssssh... not so loud...

Spurned on by Momo sunshine attitude... mummy settled in abit and we went and rolled merrily towards Punggol Plaza. Riding with additional load on the Surly Dummy means that I have to use the middle crank ring, with the rear on the bigger sprocket. The trick is to spin and not to grind on the pedals also expect that the handling will be heavier and slower. Initial feeling is that it will depend alot on the passenger, if they are relaxed and "neutral", the handling will be good. As it a motorbike, if the passenger fidgets... u will know.

The plus point is that for the first time, we rode as a family... on one bike!!!! This is amazing and I am not by any way a strong rider. Ah mo was chirpy and singing tunes and mummy trying very hard to keep cool and not panic(she never rode on Dummy before). A short while later, we reach Punggol plaza and Kim went to buy the grocery while me and momo stood around Dummy. The grocery was a non-issue as Dummy have super deluxe load carry capabilities. unclip, place stuff. Sit on the plank, we are off. Woohoo! The return leg was better as mummy was more relaxed and we sang as we rolled...even detoured abit to check out the neighbourhood. I can see more family time on bikes! Yes, thats why I like Dummy so much! Try it some day!

Super PBP Randonneuring sharing by Heng

2011-11-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

Momentos from the ride

Omg look...

22 fellow cyclists came down to Lifecycle@ Punggol for Heng sharing session of the Paris-Breest- Paris ride (PBP in short) . Heng brought along his bicycle, jerseys and alot of memos on the ride. As the talk started, he explained how he was just like us 4 years ago. Riding foldies and zipping around Singapore. Then, 40 km is a big acomplishment... as it turns out, they began to ride further and further(sounds familar huh?) To malaysia, Penggarang, Desaru, Ipoh century and more. Later onwards, he discovered Randonneuring and a group in Singapore doing it.
Learning about yourself, pushing beyond. Talking helps. Nuggets of real riding wisdom was shared freely. When asked why do it? Heng reply was " it is like asking a mountaineer, why go for mount Everest. Or Marathon runnner why do it? Because it is there...." And he made pains to show that it is not just about cycling. This ride is a meeting of people. Different people with the same love - cycling... make that long range cycling. Heng went into the details for preparing for the ride... and all over the shop... I could see the jaw drop... and Uncle KC salivating... It was awesome sharing and if u like to know more. Pls go to Heng's personal blog on his PBP account.
Rest of the event photos here
Lastly I want to thank Heng and Simon of Lifecycle for making this all possible for our lovecyclingsg team. Now should we be doing a loooonger ride? What say u?

Simon Sinek: How great leaders inspire action

2011-11-18T13:36:00.000-08:00

Ok so this is not just about cycling but I can relate to this way. People don't buy what u do but why you do it. huh? This is from TED which is a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration.... Watch this. Trust me.

Uncle Ruiz with his Utility Cargo bike

2011-11-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

Emeritus LCSG Uncle Ruiz

Diane met one cool dude in Singapore who uses bicycles to get around. Really. His name is Uncle Ruiz. He cycles to work everyday on this modified 5speed tricycle. He removed the rear basket, afixing a large metal box with a combination lock at the back instead. It contains all his tools (presumably for work) inside. "You must try. Come, try." he said. And so I did; dabsmack in the middle of busy Lower Delta. Diane added " I also asked him if he was worried anyone would steal his trike. He said that trikes don't get stolen because it looks like it's for old people or for garbage collectors. (again, his words, not mine)"

Please wave and say hello to him when u meet him on the road!

Uncle looking cool and smart with his red cargo bike

Singapore Hazardous Cycling Areas map - now on!

2011-11-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

Good day! Thanks to the efforts of Diane (and google) we now have a collaborative map to help us identify the danger spots in Singapore! Wooohooo! Please look at the instructions here and start sharing the danger spots with Lovecyclingsg team.

Pls use this google map for us to list down the danger areas for cycling and as a reference before u ride.

Singapore roads, is it Safe or Not?

2011-11-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

Cycling in Singapore

I read this article and here from London Cyclist today and it made me think deeply about how can we create a safer road condition for fellow cyclists. While I applaud Steven Lim Benoit , Francis and of course our very own Lovecyclingsg efforts to promote cycling safety but somehow I find that the cycling awareness amongst the cyclists, drivers are still very lacking and not really working so well. And seems like our Traffic authorities are not really looking into the matter. I may be wrong as I am not privy to the brilliant minds and strategic plans by our LTA and Ministry of Transport.
So... I like to state this. Riding in Singapore is dicey. This is complicated by the fact that cyclists should use the road according to the Traffic laws. Some would ask, "R u sure???" yes really! But there are some roads that even I will not try to ride - some really crazy and hairy places.... Farrer road, Geylang, thomson road, China town, Kranji road to name a few. So what gives? Should we just seek "that drivers respect the cyclists and just let things be". Or can we do it better to make the issue known? How many more cyclists would need to be injured or worst killed before the the situation improves?
I like to share with you what the British cyclists did. They invite all the riders to come visit the 10 most dangerous roads to see for them selves. And in the process document(where are the danger points, what can be improve) the entire ride and bring more awareness to the dangers to cyclists and to the authorities. So that things can move faster and make it safer for cyclists. Bravo!!!
Do you think it can work in Singapore? I am thinking to organise one ride. ...would u ride with me, help me document this ride?
5 most dangerous road in Singapore in my opinion:
1) Farrer r\Road
2) Geylang Road
3) Thomson Road
4) Bukit Timah road
5) China town area
Where else? I really like to know ur opinions and how we can make our place more bike friendly. Come on folks, please help me, help us, make the cyclist's voices heard!

Update: Diane have very kindly helped to do a google map for us to list down the danger areas for cycling. Team, please help to add ur areas of concern.Thanks !

Dummy first day 14th Nov 2011

2011-11-15T08:06:00.000-08:00

A short text message by Lynten on Sat evening... "Surprise for your girl coming in on Monday, can u make it after 4 pm?" Sure, absolutely! It followed with a flurry of FB messages and the notice of a free kopi.... George, Roland, Uncle KC, Steven Tang, Boon Yeo and Chris Wee came and witness the arrival of Surly Dummy.

Giving me support and La kopi...at the kopi tiam...

Surgeon Henry and Lynten installing mud guards....boy was it useful!

Lynten makes it look so easy

Dummy is born..with all the proud daddies!

The expert hands of Lynten and Henry make the installation look simple. I opted to put on the mud guards(super lucky, later u know) and like a expectant father....pacing here and there..... so kan cheong. haha... While Dummy was being built... we looked at the cool bike parts and molested the bikes....wahhhh Sure enough...if u stay long enough... we bought stuff. Steven and Roland got the retro Torpedo lights, and Flecsher stand. George got a 451 Primo tyres as his rear wheel is squared off. Boon got a very nice rack. Only 2 survived the posion - Chris and KC...
Around 5 pm, Lytnen rolled the bike to the front of the shop to let me try... and the same time the heavens boomed... and started to drizzle slightly... Took it for a spin around the park and it felt great! Stiff and well mannered. More like a MTB with a rear rack. It is funny cuz it looks so bulky but for some reason, the bike handles very well. Anyway, the heavens decided to make it more drama and challenging for me by upping the rain levels and lighting... Ok man, bring it on... let's go. I got mud guards..and a free trash bag by Henry. :)

Raining..use trash bag.. sure water proof!

Close up of the superior trash bag... :)

The group split off their own ways and I rolled towards Punggol. Mountbatten -Old east coast road - Still road- PIE junction- Hougang- Punggol. As I rode on the rainy and wet roads with Dummy. I was smiling from ear to ear. Oblivious to all my troubles and frustration. Ahh so shiok.... Waiting at the junction near Still road/PIE. I stylo miloed rested my left foot on the kerb and look cooly around... yeah...... oh oh... big puddle- I was in a BIG puddle...

Dummy pilot..underwear wet but happy like kanna Toto

Just as the thought bubbles formed... 3 cars turned and gave me the biggest wash down "blessing"ever. To make it more malu... 5 FT standing opposite direction with brollies... looked and laughed! I smiled too.. hahah what an idiot... Dummy to be exact! hahah I like!
Stopped at Hougang for makan and hot soup... rolled off quickly back home.
The challenge awaits. I look at the lift and said... I can do it. Press the button, door open. Rear brake activate, wheelie abit.. roll it in. No drama. Instant KO! Yeah! Easy peasey! Thanks to expert advice by Lynten and Eugene. For those who worry about the lifts - it is NO PROBLEM. CONFIRMED! As I reached my home...dripping wet... I patted Dummy... good to have u mate! I think we are gong to have a good time!

Reached my door step....and relief, no issue with the lift!

Momo just wanted to sit on Dummy...and said lets go!!! it was still drizzling...

That's not all... momo was hopping with joy and excitement... I put her on the rear deck and she said "let's go pa pi" - It was still drizzling... My CEO look at me... and I just told her "momo, daddy need to fix some more thing ok... it is raining leh..." looking nervously at CEO... Hot shower and hot milo later.. hogging the computer.. a FB msg popped out... It was from Chris ... I got old 120mm stem with 27.2 dia... u want? Oh yes!!!! Bolted out of the door like a speeding tikit.... drove like Lewis Hamilton to his home to pick up... Chris laughed when he saw me.... I was happy as a guy who kanna TOTO... but this prize can move. Chris even pass me a handle bar... So nice of him! Raced back home and noticed the rain had stopped. It was around 915 pm...."hor say liao.... I can tong pang Ah mo tonite...!!" But when I came home... my princess was already asleep... and snoring away... "Wah lau...." But I installed the passenger stem and bar.. and wrapped up some points with inner tube to avoid scratches...

passenger stem and handle, very kindly donated by Chris. Thanks!

Nice Titec stem! Old part new life!

Momo the co-pilot @ Punggol water way

Tonite, I brought Momo for the first ride! She loves it!! Singing all the way and melting everyone in her path. :) Thanks to the welcoming party, George, Steven Tang, Roland, Uncle KC, Chris and Boon for the moral support and coming for the kopi !
Thank you the TR Bike "surgeons" - Lynten, Henry who expert hands "delivered" Dummy... And Chris who's nice friendly gesture to lend me try TR Company Extracycle.
Lastly Thanks a zillion to Chris Wee who graciously gave me his extra stem and handle bar complete with foam grip. This is a beautiful....wet day which I will remember for a long long time!

"Soon they will be big and u will miss them...."

2011-11-12T05:20:00.000-08:00

Daddy as pillow -19th April 2009 @ Pasir Ris park

Ting Ting with Momo @ Beach practising dance moves..haha 19th June 2010...see the change!

"Soon they will be big and u will miss them", this are words of wisdom from many of my senior friends. And I am truly grateful and know how precious spending time with my little one and wife of course!
Today, after celebrating Kim birthday with the favorite Prawn noodle, later evening had super old style steam boat at Golden mile... and scolding Momo for making a mess of the table...
I found another gem of an article which is about the same topic. This gentleman recounts on his time with his boy and girl... and how they dont want to ride with him anymore. The boy is 10... so if I should have another 5 more years before Momo will also dun want to ride with his old man too.
This is ah mo learning to ride...

Momo strawberry bike - August 2011

Momo loves to draw and she know Daddy like bicycle... that her master piece! - 22nd August 2011

Momo with first bike and LCSG pose - 25th August, her 4th Birthday

This makes me think on memories. How do I give my girl a wonderful childhood... going to the beach(tick), riding together(tick), learning to ride(tick), riding with mummy and her(going to do), enjoying a sunset( hmmm! idea) and watching a sun rise(oh... this gonna be hard for mummy and momo)... We will try...

Treasure the time, they grow up real quick. Best of all, get on a bike together and just roll along ur neighbourhood. Just you and your little one. This will be your best memories ever!

What is a longbike?

2011-11-10T19:27:00.000-08:00

I found this video by Extracycles which explains very eloquently what it means. And how if feels to ride one. For those who have a spare MTB lying around. This is the best option. For those who dont have MTB, u can get a Surly Dummy, which is built around the extracycle concept. Now, this will not win u any races, but if u are a parent who looking for more family time with ur wife and children... and ride together.. this might be worth considering. I will be getting one in about 4 weeks and will update once I put in some miles into it. Enjoy!

Inspiration for Lovecyclingsg dance pose?

2011-11-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

Inspiration for Lovecyclingsg dance pose............ anyone?

Got to get lost... to find youself. Ride!

2011-11-09T17:07:00.001-08:00

A friend send me this... and it made me smile. Ride on!

Is cycling safe?

2011-11-09T14:52:00.000-08:00

Mr AM with rear tail flag - salvaged from rubbish dump, remants of a kite... but it works

I get this questioned asked all the time and the next comment follows "it is sooooo dangerous on the road".
Well, frankly in Singapore, I find it is. Or correctly put, there are certainly risks. But as in life, there are risks every where. Here are some rules I live by, so that I reduce the chances...
1) Be seen. Wear bright clothes, wear safety vest even if it looks dorky. I even have a handmade flag pole which makes the drivers easier to see me. It saved me a few time.. esp with the heavy haul vehicle(very tall and they cant see us)

yah.. I know.. overkill but I know for sure the driver will see me. Those who dun, are blind or drunk

2) Lighting - Bike will have lights - Front and rear. Dun scrimp on this as the rider profile is very low. Do this experiement. Go with a friend at night go to somewhere darker(dun have wrong idea), ask him to walk about 70 m from the rear and see if he can see u. Then switch on the lights. You will instantly understand what I am talking about. I even have a very bright helmet light which I can "stare" down cars, esp on the turns. Some call me crazy, which I agree. But i rather be crazy but alive
3) Attitude. Understand that even when you can be right but still be hurt on the road. Ride defensively. Assume the drivers are blur, will do stupid things and react according. If unsure. Stop. get off the road. Wait for the idiot to move out off ur radar screen. drink water and cool down. If still feeling threaten or worried about the road condition. I will ride on the pavement. Yes, u heard that right. I will ride on the pavement. And I ride with a smile. Slowly and saying hello, exuse me if I pass the cyclists or pedestrians. This is very important to me as we are ambassadors for cycling, and we show we are friendly, not atas, normal pple just riding along.
3.1) Confidence
This is part of attitude. Learn in a quiet spot with no cars to handle ur bicycle properly. Right turns, left turns. Braking, learn to know how stop quickly and how the bike reacts on different conditions. Wet, wet with sand etc. Ride on the road in a stable manner. If u are turning.. visualize TP(Traffic police) and hand signal slowly to show ur intention. And please look back, before u turn.
4) Helmet. This is one touchy hot potato. For me, I have personally witness helmet have prevented head injuries. But I find that this should be a personal right. If u want to, wear it. And if u wear it, please make sure the fit is correct and the strap is properly tighten. The issue I have with helmet advocates is that there is this "silver bullet" message it conveys. Wear the helmet and you are safe. That is all rubbish and over rated. What is important is that when u are helmet less- u need to understand u are more vulnerable and you adjust ur mindset. The most classic person I can think is Francis. And he will tell u more about the biggest issue. - Mindset of drivers and cyclist.... that deserves another blog entry... later. :)
And for those with children, I really admire the parents for bring them out. And here is an article on more on making riding safe for family. And I think it kinda of applies to other cyclists too, http://totcycle.com/blog/is-family-cycling-safe.html

Weeride child carrier - Stanley Kam personal review

2011-11-08T22:38:00.000-08:00

Stanley with Maegan

Looks comfy!

Zzzzzzz.. riding makes me sleepy

Now, this is what the frontpad is used for... water absorbing some more!

Stanley brought her princess to the LCSG sunday ride. This is how he did it... " The baby seat is known as the WeeRide Kangaroo Carrier.. its the base model and for a tiny little bit more $$ theres the luxe version called the Kangaroo LTD.. so far i felt the base model is good enough already.. i got mine from Amazon.com but can oso purchase directly from the WeeRide.com website thru the local Malaysia/Singapore dealer..they will ship it to Singapore from Malaysia.. i like the seat mainly cos its front mounted, u can easily hear, talk, interact with ur kid and not have the kid staring at your back throughout the ride.. kid will enjoy the view much more seated upfront..in case kid fall asleep, u can stabilise them between your arms and watch over them when cycling.. (here i use a very wide handlebar to improve the turning) .. oso no need to worry and keep looking behind to check on the kid and break concentration.. oso uses a 5-point safety harness (like in racecars.. hahaha!).. front mount seats oso helps in maintaining a good weight distribution.. centralised and doesnt change the handling of the bicycle.. even rider mount and dismount is easy.. the WeeRide Kangaroo is rated for kids weighing up to 40lbs (18kgs)..mostly due to the massive support system .. the resting platform works both as a support for the kid to grab on to and rest their weight on it when cycling and oso as a comfortable headrest when they doze off during a ride.. so far it has not obstructed my view ahead.. i can still see to the bottom of my front wheel and due to the compact design.. it does not obstruct the legs movement as well.. the seat is easily removable as well.. overall.. i am very satisfied and happy with it.. it can be mounted on a variety of bicycles but it just doesnt state if it can be mounted on a foldie.. but i see that with the right foldie, it should not be a problem at all.."

More information here http://www.weeride.com/Kangaroo-Center-Mounted-Child-Bicycle-Carrier

Extracycle first impressions and how to store it at home

2011-11-08T14:48:00.000-08:00

Momo enjoying a ride on TR Extracycles....

I recently had a chance to test ride TR bike extracyle- "lorry". It was alittle beat up but mechanically work fine. Many of the folks now I want to have my Wife and little one join me for Sunday rides. The idea is to "tong pang" / ferry my wife, little princess Momo Given the Pungol Water way has just been opened... I really really want them to experienced the joy of riding.. the feeling of wind on ur face.
The first impression of the bike is that it handles like a MTB, except the turing radius feels abit bigger. Maybe I was just being very careful and didnt try to turn sharply. Best of all, Momo keep pestering me to do one more round and then another. She loves the ride, can wave at mummy some more.

Later in the evening, I led a nite intro ride to Punggol Waterway for LCSG. At the start point, I met Eugene who was on a Extracycle and her girl was seating comfortably behind him. What a surprise! I asked Eugene for advice on storage... he told me he "hang" his bike to save space. That is very important for us living in apartments and make the interior minister happy. Here is how he does it. I think it is brillant!
I am sold on this... and ordered a Surly Dummy from Lynten(TR bikes) ...can't wait for it to come so I can tong pang Momo and Wife for some cooling night rides!

Eugene with his princess

Metal hook with rubber wrapped to prevent scratches

one more hook on the BB...

And u can hang the bike!! Super Idea!

Caribiner to hang the bike...

How things used to be...

2011-11-04T16:01:00.000-07:00

Images and words from Gordon Claughton

I love the internet and this is why. I can "travel" back in time to see how things were... Can u believe this is Singapore?.. and there were already cycling activities then! Read on

It is called Heart

2011-11-04T07:12:00.000-07:00

Beautiful wishing box by Esther lim

Xmas is about giving to those in need. I, personlly feel that I am very blessed to have a beautiful wife, child and a whole bunch of warm, fun loving lovecyclingsg friends. Rather then just a big party and get drunk. I thought why not we make a difference and make a child smile this year.

Come 17th Dec, we( lovecyclingsg) will be at Pertapis to spend an afternoon with the children. Play some games, makan and give a present to each of the child. To make it more meaningful, the children themselves will be writing their wishes(limit to $20 as we are no Warren Buffet) and we will do our best to find the present. The presents are very kindly sponsored by the kind angels of LCSG. And today when I saw how lovely Esther made the Wishing box... I just had this in my mind.... Heart. LCSG folks have heart!

CETMA Cargo bike review by TucsonVelo

2011-11-02T18:19:00.000-07:00

Oh god... I want it so bad...more photos and close up here.. TUCSON VELO

This is Encik Israwi ! - Rider intro

2011-10-31T17:56:00.000-07:00

Israwi @ Changi village with his handmade cargo bike!

Cycling allows me to meet many wonderful friends. Like Encik Israwi. Very soft spoken but fast becoming a regular on lovecycling. We met first at Encik George Lim relaxing ride. He told me he hadn't rode for quite a long time. Almost 10 years. That day, his ass hurt but sometime lit up inside him.

This is what he wrote on his facebook..."I was discharged from the army in 1985, i worked at most of the Singapore Island commuting with ease as i need to wake up early in the morning. And i have being doing so for 13 years until i was retrenched.

Then i decided to restart my working life on mainland. As i am only primary 6 qualified, i have to do two jobs to get myself even with 3 childrens schooling. From there onwards i decided to start cycling to work. It saves me the money where as a parent, i rather have my transport money for my children(s) although its not much and its worth the sacrifice. I am 48 now and still cycling to work for 12+ years. Once in a while, I will need to take the public transport over some circumstances. Then I joined the Love Cycling SG group, whom are people of high hopes and moral. They are a caring group which motivates people to appreciate what we already have in Singapore, past and present. Two months in the group and we are like close friends sharing anything about cycling in Singapore. They want something different other than cycling itself such as the lifestyle and the heritage of Singaporeans. It is for the people who love cycling and the mindset of others.

I hope with this and more, there will be changes in commuting people in Singapore.(P.S. this english and grammar was corrected by my 16yrs old son.)"
And if this is not moving enough. Israwi hand made a detachable Cargo bike- inspired from CETMA and Bullit. That is bloody impressive! We all got to see the work in progress last sunday and had lots of laugh. Man... does he have talent or what?

Welcome Israwi and very honoured to meet you. I hope to see u more on Sunday and Lovecyclingsg rides! Rock on man!

it really rides, well!

rolling rolling

folks looking at Israwi welding skills... it is good!

Yes, this is a scaldfolding clamp. Used to hold the bike together! Creative!

30th Oct 2011 Monster gun ride

2011-10-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

Another awesome ride with friends.... more then 60 came! Henry, this is for u!

LCSG @ Old changi hospital

Israwi with his handbuilt cargo bike. And it can be detached!! Awesome

LCSG @ Monster guns

Queen Hong!

Surf's up... let go!

Full set of photos here
http://pedalinn.blogspot.com/2011/10/our-big-bang-theory.html << Here is also write up by Kevin Wu

Goodbye Henry! Tribute to a fellow LCSG kaki

2011-10-28T01:02:00.000-07:00

Henry smiling @ Desaru

Sir Henry with his very cool SEVEN MTB!!

laughing and sweating... after the cool ride!

This is a tribute to one of our cycling Kaki, Mr Henry Lam who passed away yesterday. Quiet and reserved. Henry would join our rides, all decked up in very cool gear and bikes. I remembered once we decided to "turbo" and go full out at the Changi coastal road. I was on my moulton and Henry was directly behind drafting with his Seveb MTB. Followed closely by Clyde Teo. Huffing and puffing as one.... "Dun mind I draft u hor?" Henry hollered behind.. and we just rolled and rollde.. that was one heck of a ride! Reaching the end point, some of our MTB/roadie friends were quite shocked we actually arrived so quickly. The effort took its toll on us. Clyde simply fell off his bike and panted on the grass, wah lau... so tiring..
Henry and myself were gasping for air, sweat all over our faces... But big grin and smiles. Shiok arhh.. :) That was on 26th June 2011, Road Safety workshop
Henry, it is a pleasure to meet and ride alongside you! You will be missed by all our fellow LCSG cycling kakis!
ps: Memorial services will be held at Blk 234A Serangoon Ave 2 on 28 and 29 Oct at 8pm. Cremation on Sun Oct 30 at 345pm Mandai Hall 4. Cortege leaving 245pm"

Clyde sitting on the grass after the crazy spinning session

From Other LCSG kakis

Andrew wan: "You shared a joke about your experience with Rodalink, on how they mixed up your enquiry for Shimano cycling shoes that turned out to be Shimano fishing shoes instead. Hope you'll find sometime to wear them in Heaven. :) RIP, my friend."
Diane:" This is Henry on the day I met him. I remember him because he helped me fix my chain. He had the deepest laugh lines, I knew at once that he was a kind soul. Rest in peace dear friend."
Kimi :Cant remember when was the last ride i had with Henry..but i remember clearly during the ROS ride, Henry was there with Julia and we were still chatting on how many bikes he had...also abt his new BF bike...he was supposed to come along with us for the pengarang as well as the Bintan ride....gosh...life is just so unpredictable & vulnerable....sighs....My deepest condolences to the family....
Mr Teo: “Bro Henry, Sad to know that we miss you for we share the same passion, we are in the mid of setting up our llama to ride with you. Mine Deepest Condolence.”
Clarence Chang:” Dear Julia, i am shock and sad but My Deepest condolences to you and ur family....Dear Henry, it is my fullest pleasure riding with u and share joke with u.....you will be missed .Rest In Peace....”
Francis Chu ‎Julia Lam, I will miss Henry's kind smile. I met him last month and had SMS exchange with him last week. He is always gentle with a sense of humor, even when he is not in his best
physically condition. My condolences to you and your family.
Michael Khaw My condolences to you, Julia Lam and your family. Henry will be dearly missed by many...
Lim George I know Henry way back when we were riding MTB. Lost contact till we meet agains during LoveSG ride. My Deepest condolences to his family.

This is Lovecyclesg!

2011-10-24T18:17:00.000-07:00

Well done Matt for capturing the spirit of what we are all about! Join us. Any bike, any brand. We ride as one!

23rd Oct Hortpark and Lor mee ride

2011-10-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

Ready? Cheezze or should I say...cycleeeee!!

Steven and his loves

Really good lor mee... dun believe ask those who tried...

Andrew:" whazza with ur mask"

Now when was the last time u been here....

Nice writeup by Kevin on the ride here. And you can see more photos here of the fun fill ride. Enjoy!

City touring slowly?

2011-10-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

City Tourer at Sentosa, 1993 :) yes, it is a fully working prototype!

Design sketches. Back then, there was no computer. Just marker, pastel. Front sitting for better views!

The recent cargo bike news on the internet and cycling activities in Singapore made me think about a project I did back in 1993. I was studying product design at Temasek Polytechnic and my final year project was called City tourer.

The idea is to re-invent the Trishaw as a viable form of touring vehicle in the city. How many times have u visited a place by bus. Get on a bus, drive to a place of interest, de-bus. Click click. Get back to the air con comfort and zoom to the next place. In the haste to zoom from one place to another. Very often we fail to see, smell and experience the small, nice things in life. So enter the City tourer. Designed with a snail like form, to encourage more people to use it. With an iconic design, I hoped that it could become a part of Singapore city scape. The Canopy is solar panel to provide power for the electric power assist motor. This should make it easier to pedal around. The front seat folds up like a cinema seat so that the passenger access is easy and when not in use, can keep dry.
I hoped that it might be adapted and be commercialised. I was close. Sentosa actually approached my school, did a series of surveys and it was displayed and road test at Sentosa. Later on, I had to do my national service and the followup fizzled some what.... anyway, here is my City tourer! Let me know if u like it and I am trying to find my video.... later. Enjoy!

Learning from Dutch and feedback to our Transport Minister

2011-10-22T04:28:00.000-07:00

I read this yesterday night and was very inspired.
If u haven't please see this very interesting article http://hembrow.blogspot.com/2011/10/how-dutch-got-their-cycling.html
Didn't know that Holland was occupied by cars... all the while I just have this impression that bicycles have always been there. It wasn't. Well, I shared this article with our Transport minister Mr Lui Tuck Yew and it is also generating some buzz on his facebook. Except, we have still yet to hear from him.... yet:) Well if u like to hear from Mr Lui, I think u can help by just putting in ur comments and concerns here.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=277632788933840&id=193723290658124
My personal comments at Mr Lui FB " Just picked up cycling 3 yrs ago. And I met alot of nice friends and families who cycle along the way. With the cars and oil prices going up the roof, I really considering to cycle commute to work. What is stopping me now is the lack of safe riding conditions on the roads. If u like, I offer to bring u and ride alongside with u to show u how appalling the road conditions are. Look forward to ur answer

Bicycles changing the world? Yes. It can happen!

2011-10-19T18:33:00.000-07:00

This morning I saw this on the internet. Wow! Imagine being a part of this and if Singapore can start to embrace cycling as a real form of transport. Cycling not just lycra, super fit type but for real people. For just moving around. With families, friends and having a good time. Watch this video! And here is Liz Canning website, see how u can be a part of the documentary and do ur bit. Yes, even in Singapore!

16th Oct 2011 - LCSG supports World Hospice day

2011-10-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

@ TTSH start point of the World Hospice day ride

LCSG is a group with a heart. So even when it is very tiring after cycling through the night, a bunch of 128 LCSG iron butters carried on and participated in the ride. All for a good cause. We were joined by the rest of the lovecyclingsg crew- Diane, Gywn, Kevin, Derrick and Nick Wong. A total of almost 500 riders turned up to support the hospice ride, making for quite a carnival event.

Kimi and Gywn in a nice cooling morning

Ok, here is the not so nice bit, but is important to share. I hope this does not sound like a lecture but having all of the riders ride at the same time is a very dangerous act. There are too many variables that could go wrong. The rider's skill level and types of bike were bunched up so tight that it was really abit hairy for me and my friends.

lots of traffic towards Lavender road

Diane with her apple green Brompton

Saw Bing with here crew... drumming as one!

I hope for the future mass rides, that it should be spilt into more manageable packs so that riders do not clog up traffic like what was experienced on the actual day. The cycling route should be better planned to make use of the Park connector or have traffic marshal to isolate some real danger spots. Like the junction at Moulmein/CTE/Balestier area , the crazy 3 lane switch on kallang road which riders have to move 3 lanes from left to right. While at the same time many cars, bus zoom in dangerously close to the riders. This is the spot that one of the riders was seriously injured. Last evening, I checked with Elaine is that he is now in a stable condition and out of ICU. That's good news!
The injured rider affected me alot as we rode towards the end point at ECP. I thought to myself;" how can I make our LCSG rides safe yet fun for all. More really needs to done for Singapore Cyclists..." Riding on the roads at certain sections is really too dangerous - my mind still on the 3 lane switch, and I will definitely avoid this road junction - That's really all I can do...and blog about it.
While we want to promote cycling as an alternative way and a good mode of transport. The infrastructure is really more car centric and not catered for cyclist. All it takes is a nasty bad accident to set us back into the dark ages. Friends, please ride safe, be safe. Stay alive! Well done LCSG for ur time and supporting the world hospice day!
PS. Thank you Mr Teo for your generous contribution!

4wheel eco car :)

End point at ECP carpark B4 area... here I was about to drop and sleep on the grass...

15th Oct 2011 - LCSG folks got heart. 128 night ride account- 爱骑车。爱友谊

2011-10-17T23:51:00.000-07:00

Team Sleepy Gonzales

Team Panda

Team Titanium Butt

Team Flying Turtle

爱骑车。爱友谊 << This is from Kim, and is my biggest take away...

80 folks met at ECP Mac to embark on a 128km loop around Singapore. This time, we did it east wards. The route is ECP Mac>> Changi Village>> Punggol>> Yishun>> Sembawang>> Woodlands>> Kranji>> Lim Chu Kang>> NTU>> Jurong West>> Pandan Loop>> West Coast road>> VivioCity>> Lau pak Sat >> ECP Mac. And a bunch of us also continued to Tan tock Seng for the World Hospice Day.
The folks were split into 4 groups to ensure safety and better coordination. They were as follows:
1) Sleepy Gonzales led by Sir KC and Sweeper Zack.
2)Panda group 2, led by Chief Panda Clarence Chang and Sweeper Vince Li.
3) Titanium Butt group 3, led by Titanium butt Chief Patrick Yee and Sweeper Adrianne Lee
4) Flying Turtle group 4, led by Encik George Lim and Master Sweeper Steven lim, Andy Yap and Boo.
First pack started around 8pm with 10 min intervals.We had cooling weather and no rain. The darkness however made it quite difficult for identification and we were very lucky to have Sean and Vince Li sponsor the group, light sticks and blinking straps. To make the event even extra special, David Eng and Joeel worked hard to design and personally made the limited edition glow in the dark stickers. Only for those who rode. Not for sale.

Limited edition Sticker. Design by Joeel and hand made by David Eng

roll off!

at night... it is good to have plently of blinkers!

Andy and Kimi @ Changi village... sup sup water...

@Kranji 7-11, tired but in good spirits:)

Through out the ride, I could hear shouts of encouragement egging each other on. Music blarring away. Folks sharing all their candies, deep heat, chocolates, power bar. What a team! Everyone looked out for one another. Special mention and really unforgetable was meeting LCSG Angels @ 3am in the morning. They took the form of Steve and Bernice. Waving down the cycling groups and giving out cold 100plus drinks and bannanas. That was so nice of them! When most would be sleeping, they came out of their way to cheer the team.. I am touched by their gestures and I know many too on that day. Thank you Angels!

Bernice waving banananas for the riders

LCSG Angels Steve and Bernice

Don't look like much but it all comes from the heart. That is all that matters

mobile pitstop in the middle of the nite... 3am to be exact!

With the constant chatting and cursing.... we eventually ended the ride at ECP. Thankfully no major incidents and all who completed was on a high. Elaine Pan, smiled and told me... "Backside pain... but feeling very good. I like it! yayyyh" And Joeel, who suffered from knee pain in the middle of the ride... grin and soldered on. It was really a feat of endurance when I saw the pain written on his face. The coolest part... when he arrived... .team turtle lined up and cheered!

Dear, I love u!

Master Sweeper with KSL and Eman

Lastly I want to give my biggest thanks to all leads and sweepers and old birds for looking out for their flock and friends. Thank you very very much for the the excellent sweeping by Steven Lim, Andy Yap and Boo. To ensure that the slower riders could find their way. What a ride and I could hear murmings of ..."this is chicken feed... maybe we combined KODH with 128km!!!" wah lau... u all very hard core... hmm should we or shouldnt we? Tell me what u think? More photos here

LCSG 128 km Hoot nite ride... 15th Oct Sat 2011

2011-10-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

Design by Joeel lee

Friends....are you and ur steel horse ready? This Sat we will be embarking on a 128 round island ride once again. We start at ECP Mac Donalds 730pm and do the reverse way this time, via ECP -Changi village- Punggol- Yishun - Sembawang- Woodlands- Kranji-Lim chu kang- Jurong- West coast road-MBS inner city area- ECP. Last one in should be by 0730....
To make it even more exciting. We will do another meaningful short ride for world hospice day! This will extend our distance to 168 km which will equal to a century ride! I don't know if we can make it but I promise I will try. Cheer for us and if u see some strange lighted cyclists roaming the roads in the evening and early morning...thats should be us! Wet weather is a high probability, so waterproof ur iphone, wallet and make sure ur bikes are in working order. The clock ticks.... and I await this ride with a bated breath... Rock and roll time!
Last if u are not ready.. check here for Encik George pointers... u got 3 more days! http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovecyclingsg/doc/230161840374505/

Think our train system can be better? now is ur chance to speak.

2011-10-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

http://talk2lta.lta.gov.sg/ideas
Ok ok, I am with u... I also don't know why they need your home address and phone number while on the other hand, they hide under the LTA umbrella. U try to find anyone about it... there is not contact number, face or email..... but still I would give it a shot, and a open mind. :)
If u are shy about it... can also post on our lovecyclingsg facebook wall. We will help to convey the message. :) Thanks!

I long for a day......

2011-10-11T22:58:00.001-07:00

this is what we see at our train station...

This is a photo by Jok kwang and I was told taken outside Euston Underground. I look forward to the day when our very own MRT will be embrace the folding bike customer. I think, even if there is additional charge required for bicycle(take up some space), many would still be willing to pay. This would be a great way to resolve the last mile issue.
SMRT, and my friends... what do u say?

In chinese by Kim,
希望有一天
这照片是我朋友Jok Kwang 在伦敦尤斯顿（Euston）地铁站外所拍摄的。我真心期待有一天，我们的地铁服务也能接纳与照顾骑折叠单车的乘客。
我想，即便是地铁公司为此要征收多一点车费（毕竟折叠单车还是会占据车厢的一些空间），很多单车骑士还是会愿意接受的。这未尝不是很好的“最后一公里”(The Last Mile) 解决方案。
SMRT（新加坡捷运公司简称）和骑士朋友们，你们的看法又如何呢？

George rides to work video

2011-10-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

This is the riding route footage by our very own George Lim on his way to work. To George, cycling is not just a recreational activity but a way of life. He rides to work daily and he loves the ride. I looked at the footage and there is just something about it. Haunting black shadows with the rythymic pedalling motion. The silence just makes the video more powerful. I like to find more folks who ride to work...anyone else?

In chinese translated by Kim
爱骑单车去上班的佐治
这是我的朋友佐治（George）骑单车上班沿途所见的风景. 对佐治来说,骑单车不止是一种休闲活动,更是一种生活方式和态度。
佐治天天骑单车去上班,很享受这段时光。他的录像里有一样东西深深吸引住我:黑黑紧随的身影,规律地踩动着。无声的世界却有超强的感染力! 朋友,你也骑车去上班吗?我想认识你!

heartlander human cargo bikes

2011-10-11T09:01:00.000-07:00

SG heartlander model. And it is a shimano!

I have a problem. I like to bring my wife and little girl to ride around. The powers of social media and all my friends know of my interest in cargo bike and gave me some interesting ideas. What about a cheapo bicycle that has rear rack and additional seat welded..... huh? Boo meant this... wah lau.. sibay unglam lor.. but I think works.... Got more glamm one? Keep em coming.