I saw this unusual tandem bicycle in Santa Cruz last week. I’m trying to figure out some of the weird features of this tandem.

For example,

• How does that big ring inside the timing chain stay in place?
• What is that extra set of cranks under the stokers bars for? Russ suggests these might be hand cranks, but I think they might allow a very short rider to pedal recumbent style.
• What about that handle that appears to stick out obliquely from the stoker’s saddle? Another hint that this might be for a short rider?

Your thoughts?

No matter where you stand on the facilities debate, I think you’ll find the beginning of this video interesting, which shows how Amsterdamsestraatweg — the road to Amsterdam — has changed since its beginning in 1812 as Napoleon’s Imperial Route Number 2.

The sidepath reminds me of the two way sidepath along West Cliff Drive and Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California.

Via How We Drive and Hembrow.

Don’t forget, the Tour of Utah finished up this Sunday. Check here for a list of resources.

The three day Tour of Ireland started today. Steephill.TV Tour of Ireland dashboard. The photo is Brit Russell Downing of CandiTV-Marshalls Pasta winning Stage 1 of the Tour of Ireland.

How many Snickers bars are contained in the energy of a 70 mph SUV crash? The answer may surprise you. Hint: It’s about the same as contained in a leisurely 10 mile bike ride.

Because I love all things Specialized, I point you to this post on Zertz, “the miracle elasto polymer made with meteorite dust and the molecular essence of hybrid rubber plants grown in secret silos miles beneath the surface of the Earth.”

iPhone app as a virtual bike fitting tool.

Bike scrounging tips.

The high cost of no bicycle parking.

Cops who drive dangerously.

Bike Forums Norcal Gang.

I’m seeing links to this bike ballet video everywhere. Ditto this 3 wheeled camper bicycle. I used to draw pictures of stuff like that when I was a kid in the 70s.

1001 uses for old inner tubes.

Top 20 green colleges.

Huff: Health care debate and teen obesity.

US Bike Route System grants.