The previous article listed a number of Seattle bicycle shops with their staffs' suggestions for Holiday gift buying. Today's article continues the shopping guide with additional shops and ideas.
Counterbalance (NE Blakeley & Burke-Gilman Trail)
Glen Conley at Counterbalance emphasized gifts that increased safety, hi-vis jackets, helmets, and lights. He added that helmet covers fly off the shelves during this time of year. Not only keep the rain out, but increase visibility and warm. Becoming more and more popular are the USB rechargeable lights which can be plugged into a computer, and Conley recommended Light & Motion 200-700 lumens-capability choices. Counterbalance also carries Lezyne lights and pumps as well. Conveniently, Counterbalance is right on the Burke-Gilman Trail near U Village.
Gregg's (Greenlake)
According to Riley and Stefano, Gregg’s most popular Christmas gifts are
- Kid's bikes which are available in 16, 20 or 24 inches. Strider pedal-less bikes can be purchased for less then $100.
- They also suggested socks and gloves, and lights.
- In particular, they recommended Light & Motion’s Urban 200, again a USB rechargeable light.
- Gregg’s Repair shop staff prepared handy repair kit gift bags. Something any bicyclist can use, these are available at $24.99. Included are:
- Flat-fix kit
- Multi-tool
- Chain lube
- Bike cleaner
JRA (Greenwood)
- For the roadie, Continental GatorSkin tire. At $55, this folder fits most road wheels and can be easily re-gifted if your giftee doesn't need it.
- Pedro's Multi-tool even includes a chain breaker.
- Tri-flo chain lube $6
- Knog Blinders USB rechargeable, silicon strap; very portable $60
Steve recommends Full-coverage helmets which are certified for skateboarding as well. Warmer than conventional racing or road design and he attests that they’ll survive being kicked around on a bar floor. So, if you're planning on bar hopping soon or your giftee is so inclined, Steve invites you to come in and check these out.
Recycled Cycles (U District/Fremont)
- Darian and Skip at Recycled Cycles also recommended lights, especially USB rechargeable. Brands available are:
- Light & Motion 350 lumens at $90
- Cyclo’s Hot Shot Combo
- Also on their list were Smartwool base layers and beanies
- Receiving special mention was the limited edition Recycled Cycles hoodie by Craft for $95.
Second Ascent (Ballard)
At Second Ascent, lights were number one on the list, especially Light & Motion’s 360 lumens USB rechargeable with cable $95
In addition:
- Folding lock that attaches to the water bottle mounts
- Gloves $40-100 with special tips for use with cell phone
- MIPS system helmets by Scott - Inner liner tears away in a crash to absorb the impact rather than transferring it to the brain.
If none of these suggestions tickled your fancy or if we missed your neighborhood bike shop, please visit them. If there’s a special bicycle-related gift on your list, please list it in the comments section. It could be just what another reader is looking for. Thanks, and best wishes.
