We are playfully realistic about our cycling ambitions. Podiums, medals, and any real cycling accolades aren’t exactly our Thing. But really, they never were a concern to begin with. This is because we are part of the Fun Majority of cyclists — the enthusiastic group of people who ride bikes simply for enjoyment.

But don’t get it wrong … we are not defining enjoyment as “tootling around the park counting squirrels”.  We mean enjoyment in the “it has personal value” context. In other words, there is enjoyment from touring, group riding, commuting to work, exploring gravel roads, leisurely solo rides, etc. Basically, if you ride your bike because it makes you smile and feel good (and not solely for a trophy / prize money / crushing other people’s self-esteem) then you are a part of the Fun Majority.

In fact, we have built our little business around the Fun Majority. We feel that these cyclists are under recognized by the cycling industry. Of course this is ironic considering that riders who pedal for enjoyment / recreation / smiles are the vast majority of cyclists.  Instead, we are all sold on the idea that we can / must achieve cycling greatness, deserve the attention of El Diablo, and should take our place among The Greats.   But if we were all Great then …

And to stand a moment longer atop the soapbox, we do feel that the mainstream cycling media and publications are out of touch with real cyclists.  Rather than romanticizing professional athletes and lauding the latest-greatest high techery, it seems a deeper connection with Fun Majority would be to their benefit.  Alas, this isn’t what sells magazines / clicks / advertising.  Afterall, who would read Car and Driver if they droned on about practical cars issue after issue?  Thankfully, some young upstarts are filling the need of the Fun Majority with publications like Momentum, Bicycle Times, and Urban Velo.

In fact, we benefit from this “Michael Schummacher races a Ferrari, so you should drive one to the Grocery Store” mentality.   This is because our customers are not so easily fooled by marketing hype.  They recognize that a bicycle can only be propelled as fast as the rider can provide.  They know that 100 grams is the weight of their car keys.  And on a much deeper level, they also understand that cycling is about Quality Time.  Quality Time with friends, loved ones, or just by yourself.  Quality Time to experience freedom of self-propulsion, freedom of movement, freedom of age.

The point of all this is that riding a bike should be fun — and our business is based on this presumption.  It doesn’t matter how far or fast you ride, whether you commute, ride off-road, or enjoy bicycle touring … as long as cycling puts a smile on your face then you are part of the Fun Majority.  Forget about the $10,000 race bike that will have the lifespan of a single season — it is not the right bike for you!  Buy a bike that fits your budget and is durable, safe, thoughtfully designed, and meant to be enjoyed.  You (and your family) will be happy that you did.