Comments for getfitfirst

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Stuart Knoles

Stuart Knoles — Sun, 12 May 2013 01:45:09 +0000

Having trained in competitive cycling, I retain the skill of pushing out of the saddle, as it is called. I have found that the Silk for some reason, invites me to do that. Without much thought, I have found myself pushing it out of the saddle (no not getting off and pushing the bike), and am surprised at how natural it feels. And even with a custom fit stem. I would notice if there were a lot of flexing, for the response would be noticeably soft, but, it is not soft. Although the frame is heavier and more durable, the bike seems to want to take the slams; there seems almost a shock absorbing character. That may be why it does not feel abusive to jump the bike off curbs. Wonder if that is related to the unique design.

Comment on Lift tikit by Thierry D.

Thierry D. — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 01:23:08 +0000

Nice article and photos, I love my Tikit Infinity too and find it very practical pretty much everywhere. The only thing I wish was a better gear range, now I’m waiting for my Infinity Silk and I see what I can do or don’t

Comment on Vintage Beijing by Stuart Knoles

Stuart Knoles — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:35:20 +0000

It is so gratifying – and surprising – to see how cycling is such a common ground, in the diverse cultures of the world. As a Tweed rider, I very much appreciate this.

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Andreas Niehoff

Andreas Niehoff — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 21:20:42 +0000

Stuart, thanks for your feedback. Good to hear more impressions from a Silk owner. I was not really concerned about a frame, but more about the stem, when I get off the saddle. I am now in contact with a retailer here in Germany, so I can get some hands on experience.

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Andreas Niehoff

Andreas Niehoff — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 21:14:17 +0000

Thanks for your response Raz. I am really getting anxious to try out the Silk.

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Stuart Knoles

Stuart Knoles — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 20:33:38 +0000

It should be noted that the Silk appears to come standard with the heaver rider frame. I still have a body weight in the lower 140 lb and I would of course not worry about my Silk frame. I recently marveled at how good my Silk took to a stretch of gravel road – until taking a pinch-puncture. With no rear triangle, the Silk looks rather fragile, but I recall an article by the Silk designer: Rob English, a Cat 1 class racer, discussing racing with a Silk configuration prototype bike. He was winning top-level hill climbs. Thus I do not think the frames have an inherent weakness. I have detected no instability in my Silk. Although the Silk is intended as a utility, touring bike, it also feels good to get out and hammer with it. I would not hesitate taking it on rough terrain, or getting out of the saddle to really push a climb. I think one can safely not hold back riding it. Go ahead and try to break that frame. The Silk I would venture is as sturdy as any bike. It seems well suited to standing out of the saddle to give it everything you have. Before long, you will consider the Silk a normal bike: I think – correct me if I am just hooting.

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Raz

Raz — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:08:39 +0000

Matthew is busy building Bike Fridays, but I can tell you that our frames are guaranteed for life. We’ve built Bike Fridays for individuals 7-feet tall, weighing up to 280 pounds. They are built for the long haul.

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Andreas Niehoff

Andreas Niehoff — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:52:24 +0000

Matthew, thanks for sharing your impressions with the Silk. I’m new to folding bikes, but I’m really pondering to get one (also, since I need to new bike).

I am still a bit concerned about the durability of the bike, especially when I stand up from the saddle and lean onto the handlebar with my weight (I’m 6.1 ft and 165 lbs). Can do this with the Silk like to do with my normal bike (trouring/cross bike)?

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Raz

Raz — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:59:23 +0000

Nope, both are available. Most of our Silks have disc brakes to make the convenience package complete.

Comment on In-House Beta Testing Silk by Stewart Logie

Stewart Logie — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 19:23:53 +0000

In looking at the Silk frame design I wonder if it precludes the use of rim brakes and rear racks.